Linda Dale Patterson

Linda was a beacon of passion and creativity whose life enriched the hearts of many. Linda was born on a farm in Cloverdale, where her early curiosity and love for nature blossomed.

Linda’s career was devoted to inspiring countless young minds in Literature and History. She began as a teacher-librarian at a young age and later took a mid-life break to explore other vocations, including design. During that time, she independently designed and curated her home and garden at Shawnigan Lake, a testament to her creative spirit. Her enduring love for teaching ultimately brought her back to education when Frances Kelsey Secondary opened in Mill Bay.

Linda embraced life with zest. An avid traveler with a deep affection for Italy, she delighted in exploring new cultures and landscapes. Her lifelong passion for classical music was evident in her enjoyment of concerts and her skill at the piano, a pursuit she refined at The Royal Conservatory of Music after earning her degree from Victoria College. In retirement, Linda devoted herself to studying and practicing tai chi, kung fu, and folk dancing, embracing the grace and discipline they nurtured. Her eccentric yet modest spirit, thoughtful nature, and engaging personality endeared her to everyone she encountered.

Linda was pre-deceased by her sister, Patricia, and is survived by her nieces, Christine (Vince), Victoria (Ian), and many great nieces and nephews. She will also be fondly remembered by Eric, with whom she shared a cherished friendship and mentored from his formative years.

Whether tending to her beloved garden, where her deep care for the natural world flourished, or sharing moments with close friends Salme, Maria, Shelagh, and many others, Linda's love for life shone brightly. A distinctive feature of her memorable presence was her long hair, which gracefully cascaded down to her knees.

Linda, your life was a masterpiece, and your spirit will forever resonate in the lives and spaces you so enriched. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the David Suzuki Foundation, an organization Linda supported throughout her life.