Born in Saskatchewan on the 9th of January in 1935 and was adopted into a loving family, “Patsy” often reminisced of how her father would tell her that he chose her because she was the only one with curly hair. What followed was a fondly remembered childhood with her sister Marylin and her brother Jack, both whom predeceased their middle sister.
Raised in East End, Patricia taught school and then attended Nurse’s college in Regina, graduating in 1956 and making many lifelong friends. In 1957 she married Leonard ‘Jack’ Smith and became the wife of an army officer with its many challenges and benefits. The couple lived throughout Canada and in Europe and became the parents of two boys. Sadly, Jack suffered a devastating illness while on maneuvers in Wainwright, AB and died in 1966, leaving Pat a widow with children aged 8 and 6.
As a single parent, Patricia returned to nursing work in Calgary and years later met Gordon Olsen, who became her partner for the next 25 years. Together they moved the family to Chase, BC where they built a log house and enjoyed an active social life. They separated after moving to Victoria where Pat spent the remainder of her days, working until retirement at James Bay Lodge. A lover of golf, Pat played constantly, first in Metchosin and later at Cedar Hill.
Pat passed after a brief illness on December 3, 2022 and leaves behind her sons, Dale Olsen (Marie) of Victoria and Glenn Smith in the Okanagan, grandsons Kehler Smith and Clinton Zirk, as well as her nieces, nephews and their families
Our family would like to thank the staff at Douglas Amica House for their years of care and concern, and the great people at The Heights, who cared for Pat in her final days.
No service by request.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Anne and Nick Northeast
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Carol Mackay My condolences to you Dale & Glen, Clint & Kehler, remembering Pat as a tenant who was kind with a smile for all she came in contact with. Through her love of golf I was able to improve my own game with the many tips she passed my way.
I know I speak for many here at the building when I say that she is missed.
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Yas Dolsen My condolences to you, Dale and Glen. I remember your Mom very well. She was one of the Home care Nurses in Chase and I worked as the Supervisor for Kamloops Home Support. She was such a kind caring person and hearing of her passing, I will remember how much I learned from her. I’m sorry for your loss and know how much your Mom will be missed.
Have only just heard about Pat’s death and Nick and I would like to offer our condolences. She was a smashing friend to me and so much part of my life in Canada.
She tried in vain to teach me the rudiments of golf and very rarely lost her temper!
We remember with great fondness golfing at Metchosin, and when she and I worked at JBL together and the experiences we shared.