With heartfelt sorrow we announce the death of Patricia (Trish) Elizabeth Antonucci (nee Williams), on December 4th, 2021 and simultaneously celebrate her time with us. As wife and cherished partner of Peter Antonucci, precious daughter of Elmer (Pete) and Henrietta Williams, she was treasured by her brother Peter and sister-in-law Carol Williams (Smith), loved by her nephew Peter Matthew Williams and niece Leanne Morris (Williams), and by her grand nieces and nephews; Peyton, Lucas, Rachel, Josh and Paxtyn. As Peter’s soul mate, Trish was quickly embraced as an Antonucci family member. In a myriad of ways, she blessed all of them with her lively and engaging nature and commitment to them.
From Patricia’s earliest days as a newborn in Chapleau, Ontario on March 4th, 1954, she brought joy into the home of the young Williams family. She grew up in a household filled with positive stimulation and character-building lessons. Early summers were spent at the family cottage on Black Lake, Perth ON where Trish experienced her joy of boating which provided her with the means to socialize with all the young people on the lake. Her Dad’s joie de vivre and her Mom’s sensibilities gave her the appropriate set of ‘guard rails’ and ‘leash-length’ needed to experience personal, social and professional opportunities and challenges with an innate confidence, strength and clarity few people posses.
After attending Rideau High School and completing her formal education at Carleton University and Ottawa Teacher’s College, Trish quickly translated her schooling and talents into what became a passion for public broadcasting and a valued career at CBC. Her clear thinking, collaborative nature, superior writing and strong communication talents led her up the ranks in human resource development to positions influencing the Corporation’s workplace hiring, equity and behavior policies programs. It also earned her the respect and trust of many colleagues who eventually became some of her dearest friends.
Together, Peter and Trish crafted a beautiful home and social environment built around shared tastes in art, friendships, travel, and boating. They spent a considerable amount of their most treasured time with close friends and family plying Ontario’s heritage waterways with the steady hand of Captain Trish at the helm, the navigating prowess of Peter selecting routes, and the attentive eyes of their Schnauzer, Chelsea, ever on alert. So much was their magic elixir of navigational competence, stylish marine attire, and jovial demeanor evident during these voyages, that they were treated akin to ‘Cruising Royalty’ by many of the lock and dock masters ensuring their safe passage.
Many personality traits shaped and polished through life experiences made Trish a treasure for those who knew her. Her clarity of thought, readiness to confront challenges, empathetic ear, meticulous eye for detail, quick and dry wit, and sensitive emotional IQ made her a beautiful person to know. Trish had many close and treasured friends, who were with her and Peter during her battle with cancer and in her final days. Many of them travelled from far-flung places across North America to share precious last moments and much love with this very special lady. Ottawa’s incredible medical support team – doctors, home care nurses – unselfishly provided amazing care during Trish’s cancer treatment and in her final palliative stage.
When our tears of sadness over Trish’s passing eventually subside, may we all replace them with moments of spontaneous smiles and tears of joy spent with ‘the cutest girl that Chapleau’ ever produced. As one of Trish’s friends so aptly expressed:
“A friend of mine once said that she believed when people cross over, they bring all the love they had in life with them. Be prepared to carry a heavy load, my dear friend, because you’ve been so loved.”
A visitation will be held at Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Ave, Ottawa, ON) on Tuesday, December 14th from 2-4 and 7-9pm. A celebration of life will take place on December 15th, 2021 at 1pm, followed by the inurnment. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice in Trish’s memory.
*Due to COVID restrictions, please ensure proof of vaccination upon arrival*
Digital Guestbook
Paul & Suzanne Hupe
Diana McLean and Wilf Stefan
Peter, we can so well imagine how you feel at this time. Trish was a sparkling person, funny and kind, smart and engaging. We had lost touch these past few years with kids and work and travel and never thought our opportunity to reconnect would have been lost so soon. A reminder that now is what we have. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of Trish's family and close friends. Much love, Diana and Wilf.
Richard & Donna Dancer
I first met both Peter and Trish at the CBC in the mid-80's (I think). When they first started dating, it was somewhat a surprise. Trish was a very outgoing, classy lady. Peter, too, was, classy but his tastes were different to Trish. Peter was very comfortable driving a rusty, beat up truck. Trish preferred comfortable sedan. When they sealed their relationship, the rusty truck was replaced by a new SUV and Trish enjoyed driving Peter's Jag. Donna and I kept in touch with Peter & Trish over the years. We appreciated Trish's style, joy of life and comfort talking with people from different walks of life. She was a gem, as is Peter; friends and confidants for ever. Our sincere condolences Peter and family. Trish will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Lise Labine (formerly Duval)
Peter and family, I am very sorry for your loss. I worked closely with Trish while at the CBC...she was a kind, loving and caring colleague. I am very sorry for your loss...and wish you well....???
Louise Hamelin
Peter, please accept my heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Trish was a ray of sunshine on the Rideau. I always enjoyed our conversations we shared. Such a lovely person. I'm so sorry for your loss. You will be in my prayers.
Lynn and Gary Saunders
Our sincere sympathies Peter. Remembering you both as our boating neighbours at Hurst. Take care.
Jean and Doug Griffith
Trish. I will miss you so very much. You have been my shining star and We will keep you in our hearts.
Barbara Brownlee
It was with sadness that I heard the news about Trish. My deepest condolences to Peter and to her brother, his wife and her niece and nephews and their families. Trish was a wonderful person and we worked so well together at CBC. She has been a support to me over the years. With all the wonderful memories of her kindness to others, her beauty and her love of her family she will be in your hearts forever.
Brenda Hodgson & Murray Lush
Trish was an endearing special friend and loving generous person and soul-mate to Brenda. Always a fashionista, she was a permanent member of the girls-away- week for shopping excursions. We spent many happy times together, with laughter, feasting, travel and euchre. Trish and Peter always welcomed us into their home, as family. She captained her first mate , Peter, with aplomb and sometimes Ernie, Peanut, Bailey and Chelsea as well. Our memory of Trish will always be a loving one. We will miss her dearly. LOVE Brenda & Murray
Jane E White
Trish was a close friend to my sister, Earlene. I remember a dinner invite for my mom, Eunice, Earlene and myself to join Trish and Peter for dinner in their home. They greeted us all in warmth and friendship, making it a most enjoyable visit. It was a delightful experience seeing the deer come to the back yard for the feed that was left for them. I am grateful for the times that I was able to connect with Trish and Peter. God be with you Peter, and be gracious to you, now and always. Jane
Peter & family. Please accept our most sincere condolences. Trish will be missed but never forgotten.
We first met Trish when I worked at CBC on Meadowlands Dr. Every time she appeared she was like a shining star. She loved having a good time and her laugh was contagious. Trish was a very generous and caring person. We will miss her but will remember the fun we all had in her presence.