Pat was born in the midwife’s house across from the Prairie Inn in Saanichton and lived her entire life on Central Saanich Road. She met her husband Ken when he worked across the street as a pump jockey for Hafer Brothers Machine shop. They were married in 1942 and Ken carried her across the threshold of the house he built for her, she lived there for the next 79 years.
She was predeceased by Ken in 2006, and is survived by her sons, John (Lora-Lea), Bob (Lea) and Mike (Liz), and her daughter Sue (Lauchlan).
Mom was a true professional parent, devoting over 77 years of support, advice and inspiration to her children that continued up to her passing. She loved her family deeply. Whether through birth or through marriage, if you were family, you were gold in her eyes. She knew the birthdays of each of her 29 grandchildren and great grandchildren and cherished her conversations with them and they with her, each sharing the stories of their lives.
Pat was a brilliant woman; she enjoyed crossword puzzles and could do a five-star Sudoku without candidates right up to the last week of her life. A skilled Bridge player she enjoyed games with her many friends and taught many family members to play. Pat was an Honorary Life Member of the Saanich Fair and was a stalwart of it for many years, not only working there but also winning many prizes for her baking and preserves. She loved her daily walks and could be seen around the neighbourhood, or at her favourite place, Island View Beach.
Mom died peacefully surrounded by her family. With the amazing support of the Victoria Hospice Society Rapid Response Team and her long-term caregiver and friend Sharon Smith, we were able to fulfill her wish to die at home.
A service will be held 2:00pm April 30th at St Mary’s Church, 1973 Cultra Ave, Saanichton, BC with a reception to follow at the Saanich Fairgrounds.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in her name to the Victoria Hospice Society or Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Gwyneth (Jones) James
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Mary Ann MacKenzie (Jones) Sue, Mike, John, and Bob, your mom meant so much to me. She’s been in my life since I was 4. In short, I can’t recall her not being there. My mind is flooded with so many happy memories of both your mom and dad. Your mom was such a kind person. I can’t imagine a world without her smile. I’m so happy I got to speak with her just last month when she called my dad for his birthday. We talked about getting together for a visit when it got a bit warmer outside. We reminisced a bit. We talked about Minnie Swoop (not sure about the spelling) of all things! I’m so sad we missed having that last visit. She lived such a long life….but it still wasn’t long enough. Pat, I miss you already. Thanks for making my life happier for being a part of it.
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Barbara Currie My sincere condolences to you all. Your mom was such a wonderful woman who didn’t mind my knocking on her door a few yeas ago. Of course she invited me in for a cup of tea and a chat. My mom, Kitty, grew up with Pat and her brother John and was very close to Pats neighbor Dot Fink. She is the last of that generation and so glad to hear that she went peacefully and from her own home.
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Kathy Gunter-Smith (Smethurst) Although I didn’t know your Mom, I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you. It is always sad to lose a parent but I am sure you have many wonderful memories to help you through this difficult time. She will always remain close to you in your hearts.
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Marg Anderson (Taylor) Mrs Stanlake was one of the most gracious ladies I have ever known. My earliest memories of her were when she coached John and I teaching us our “lines” for a school play in grade 2 or 3. Christopher Robin seems to ring a bell! Milk and cookies were always on the table! My thoughts and condolences are with all of you, especially John, Bob, Mike and Sue. Your Mom will be missed by many who loved and admired her and I am so glad that I had the honor and privilege of knowing her. I know that your many memories will comfort you in the days ahead.
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Gail Frampton Very sad to hear of Pat Stanlake’s passing! I used to babysit her boys on a few occasions! I am related to the Wright family. We lived on the farm for a few months and on the Beach while Dad was building yet another house! I was a student at Mt. Newton 1954. Pat was always very kind to our family. Our Dad (Andy Lomas) and Vic Lomas were cousins to Sylvia, Jady, Dorothy Wright, good friends of Pat! Our Grandmother was sister of Blanche Wright.
She lived a very long happy life-Bless her!
Gail Frampton nee Lomas.
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Jill Wake (Bolster) What a great long life Pat was able to live. As a family you will have many memories to get you through this loss and to remember her by. I remember Pat as such a lovely lady, with an amazing smile. She and my mom shared many a giggle!
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Ellen Guttormson Sending condolences to the whole Stanlake family. You have lost a real treasure. Pat was an amazing woman.
She was a lovely lady and a beautiful soul. I have happy memories of wandering down for visits as a young person. Sending my condolences to all of you from Peterborough Ontario.