Sadly and with a great sense of loss, our family announces the quiet death of our precious husband, our dad, grampa and great-grampa. Dale George Patterson was born 80 years ago in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan to Wes & Evelyne Patterson. Dad left this world in peace on Thursday, February 28th, 2008. Bracken, Saskatchewan was his home for the first 12 years of his life until the family relocated to the new settlement of Rolling Hills in 1940. After graduating from Olds Agricultural College, Dad returned to his chosen work, farming with his parents. In 1949, he married our mom, Lois McMillan. It took forty-seven years for Dad to realize the true meaning of the words “’til death us do part” when his precious Lois passed away.
Dad was a true man of the land – his farm was his pride, farming and ranching his joy, an attribute passed on to his kids. There is no better demonstration of faith than a man planting seed in a field and tending it through to the harvest. Dad was the eternal optimist, always looking forward to a better crop or a more productive cow. In his Alzheimer’s moments, Dad was still herding his cattle, moving the sheep and working the fields.
Although farming and supporting a family kept him busy, he always had time to be involved in his community in various capacities setting aside other goals to dedicate time, money, skills and hard work for organizations he believed in.
Early in the 80s, Arizona became the winter retirement home where, over the years, Dad & Mom formed cherished, lasting bonds. Dad’s passions included golf, baseball, watching sports on TV and a good game of crib.
On November 14, 1997, we were all so blessed to have Leila Richards officially join our family and become Dad’s wife.
Dad loved to visit with people. He laughed hard and loved big. Anyone who knew him for a minute or a lifetime, will remember his quick wit, his famous sense of humour and teasing. He was a natural born storyteller, remembering incidents with an amusing twist.
Dad found strength in his faith. He was dedicated to his church, Rolling Hills United, working tirelessly for its good. He was a man with simply values: love God, love of family, respect for the land and animals, to do well by your neighbour.
Rest well, thy good and faithful servant. Take his hand, precious Lord, lead him home.
Our dear, sweet Leila has lost her best friend and loving companion.
Dad’s memory will be forever locked in the hearts of his children, Carol (Milton), Allan (Trudy), Greg (Mona), Jan (Rein), Judy (Ron), Cathy (Tim), Jackie (Dave) and Kim (Stephen).
He was shepherd to 27 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, who will all carry his spirit.
Dale will also be lovingly remembered by his faithful sister Arlene Lester, brother Cal (Jeanette) and numerous nieces and nephews.
Cremation has taken place. However, his family invites his friends and ours to join us in a celebration of his remarkable life on Saturday, March 22nd, 2008 in the Rolling Hills Community Centre at 2 o’clock p.m. If friends wish, contributions may be made in Dale’s memory to the Brooks & District Health Foundation, Bag 300, Brooks, AB T1R 1B3 or charity of choice.
