Obituary of David William Patterson

Peacefully with his family by his side, David passed away on Saturday, April 6, 2024, in his 76th year. Beloved partner of Carol Gilbert for almost 33 years. Pre-deceased by his parents Richard and Olive (Cameron) Patterson and by his precious sister Barb Cook (2019). Proud father of Shannon Scollard (Eric), Wylie Patterson (Tammy) and Heather Shingler. His five grandchildren Abigail (Will), Mia (James), Kade, Willow and Coral...he loved you all dearly. Older brother and best friend to Brian, and two special ladies who lay victim to his sense of humor, all in fun of course, his sisters Joanne Adney and Mary Culver (Brad).  His large family also includes in-laws Pat (Lloyd) Belan, Ruth (Steve) Stratton, Leslie (Sue) Anderson, Murray (Maureen) Anderson and Marla (Wayne) Burgess.  My count may be questioned, but I did my best to add up the crews 24 for Patterson and 26 for Anderson, including two G-G-Nieces and one G-G Nephew.

Shannon, his eldest daughter was here to help me and support her dad, over the years and especially when he was unable to do for himself. Spouse Eric did much to help with house upkeep and things David could no longer do. Blue Betty burned up the 401 from Etobicoke to London many times. Thank you from both of us.

David will be forever in our hearts and missed by many.  We have a close and supportive family who frequently celebrate with BBQs and lively, crazy fun get-togethers.  He loved to see and, yes, raze his nieces and nephews. He could visit for hours with everyone and drink his luke-warm MacClays.  He was a much-loved member of both the Patterson and Anderson clans. He looked forward to being a lively part of his blended family as they grew, married and had their own children. 

He was blessed with many close friends and they too mourn his loss.  Special mention to three "additional brothers", who were always there for him and loved him...Sam Elabd (Hiam), Duncan Burns (Dale), Mike Taylor (Hellen) and their families.  There are so many people in his life who weathered his sense of humor, who shared a golf day out, sipped a cool beer in his garage, while watching as his grass was being cut. With a twinkle in his eye (this is how you knew he was about to pull your leg), David would tell new neighbours as they arrived "my last neighbour always cut my grass for me".  

David was an amazing and creative artisan.  He could envision a project and with his wide range of skills make it come to life.  He built his own home, while working full-time with his brother in their Roofing and Renovation business and raising three very active kids.  He had an eye for straight lines and spent many nights in his sleep walking around our house tapping on walls looking for the studs. Upon his retirement at 65, David renovated our home...every room has his special touch. He was an avid fast-ball player and was a very good pitcher, he also liked the after-game comaraderie. David loved all sports, e.g. roller skating, swimming...anything active and exciting he would try, he was a strong man both physically and emotionally.  

My life with David started July 7, 1991.  We met and were never apart from that day.  I loved him unconditionally and we shared a full and loving life.  We had time to prepare for this day and spent many hours talking, crying and hugging it out.  I am grateful for this time as  David was determined to prepare me.  

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the London Palliative Care Team for their dedicated care and compassion. This is an amazing program and we could not have done this without them.  Their goal is to let the spouse and loved ones give their support and leave the caregiving to them.  Dr. Milne and Dr. Kim were the most gentle, compassionate people I think I have ever met.  Immediate help for David was always just a phone call away.  

Cremation has taken place.  The planning of David's celebration of life is underway.  No time or date has been set..

Those wishing to make a donation in memory of David, as he loved all animals, even spiders and bugs were left to live on, his choice is the London Humane Society.