Patricia Anne Howden

Following a courageous battle with cancer, Pat passed away at the age of 68 on Saturday, June 4, 2011 at her home in Headingley, Manitoba. She was fortunate to spend her final days in peaceful surroundings, enjoying the company of family and friends.

Pat was born on September 14, 1942 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She spent her formative years in the North and West Ends, attending General Wolfe School and Daniel McIntyre Collegiate. She attended United College, then Normal School to obtain her Education Certificate. Pat cherished her time as a primary school teacher.

Pat married Bill on July 16, 1964. Following the early years of their marriage living in PMQs in Petawawa, Ontario and Gypsumville, Manitoba, Pat and Bill moved to Portage la Prairie, Manitoba in 1972. Pat and Bill resided in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba until 2009, at which time they moved into their retirement home in Headingley, Manitoba.

Pat embraced every day of her life with good humour and sharp wit. Even in her final days, she delighted in the first glimpse of spring - the returning song birds and the first perennials to sprout in the garden. She especially loved a good party, and was the ultimate hostess, ensuring every detail was perfect. Pat loved to tell stories, usually with great exaggeration and always talked with her hands. She had many colourful expressions, which were a constant source of amusement to her children.

The holidays were a special time at Pat’s house; she created a warm and welcoming ambiance with her home décor and fabulous cooking. Friends and family were always welcomed with open arms.

Pat will be lovingly remembered by her husband Bill. Pat and Bill spent many happy years in Portage la Prairie. They enjoyed golfing together at the Portage Golf Club, treasured time with family and friends, and travelling (particularly to places with palm trees!). Pat will also be lovingly remembered by her children Andrew (Cheryl) of Calgary, Alberta, Cath (Greg) of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Susie of Phoenix, Arizona; her grandchildren Duncan, Owen, Kate, Grace and Ryan; her mother Ollie Chomiak of Calgary, Alberta, her brother Ken Chomiak (Nancy) of Calgary, Alberta, brother in law Don Howden (Marilyn) of Edmonton, Alberta and many other close family and friends.

We would like to thank the home care staff of Central RHA, particularly Lorraine, Kathy, Carol and Erica, and nurses Becky, Val and Bernice. You were instrumental in allowing Pat to remain at home in her final months, and treated her with respect, dignity and affection. Your kindness and support will be remembered always.

A memorial service celebrating Pat's life will be held at Thomson “In the Park”, 1291 McGillivray Blvd, Winnipeg Manitoba on Friday, June 10, 2011 at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Pat, to the Portage & District Hospital Foundation or CancerCare Manitoba.