Passed away on January 5, 2021 at the Ottawa Hospital (Civic) with his family at his side. He was born on April 27, 1930 to Alma and Errol Patrick in Montreal. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Bunny (nee Collins) and leaves in sorrow his loving children Kurt (Ginette); Kim (late Joseph); Keith (Patricia). Much-loved grandfather of Olivia (Dylan), Shane, Thomas (fiancée Sarah), Hannah, Vanessa, Erika. Predeceased by his brother Tony (Barbara) and special friend Stella, he will be deeply missed by his brothers Terry, and Teddy, sisters Tisha, Ty and Tanya as well as his nieces, nephews and friends from coast to coast, plus his furry canine companion Tara.
Errol grew up in Trinidad under the care of his paternal grandfather. At the tender age of 16, he moved to Vancouver and then joined the Canadian Army (35 years) as a Gunner in 1950 and served our country in the Korean War. As a member of the Canadian Armed Forces, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, he was deeply respected, served with honour and distinction, and was a trailblazer for Black Canadians to serve proudly in uniform. Throughout his life, and with his innovation to embrace technology in his later years, he was able to maintain and foster the multiple friendships that were of such great importance to him.
A devoted family man and husband, some of the family’s fondest memories were of exploring Canada and Europe on many camping adventures. He was a loving grandfather who was actively involved with each of their lives and encouraged them to love one another, live life to the fullest and always emphasized the importance of family. He was an active member of the Legion Branch 632 (Past President, Treasurer, and Poppy Fund organizer) and a strong advocate for the care of Veterans and believed “For me, every day is Remembrance Day”.
We would like to thank the staff at the A1 Geriatric Unit at TOH for the exceptional care and compassion they provided our father during his final days. In addition, thank you to Wendy and other wonderful neighbours on Vorlage Drive that supported his independent living for so many years.
Due to the Covid pandemic a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 632 or Charity of choice.
Stand Easy Dad.
“Ubique”
Digital Guestbook
Dennis (Doc) Hopper
Richard Beaulne
My Condolences to The Patrick Family
Sorry to hear about your lost
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ROBERT HOWELL
I served under his command as a Bdr at first, then later as a WO. Then we knew him as a true friend at the reunions. He was one helluva damned fine man indeed. He was a gentleman and just plain excellent man and fine friend, he will be missed by so many. I feel the pain of the family and my heart goes out to you as well as my thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Truly a great loss. RIP Errol, EOM, Stand Easy Rest Sir Rest Ubique
RICHARD COWLING
RIP old soldier and God be with you.
Melissa Kehoe
Our sympathy goes out to your family on your loss. May he RIP.
MWO(Ret'd) Melissa Kehoe, On behalf of The Bytown Gunners' Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (All Ranks) Association.
Lill
Another cherished angel gone to join sweet Bunny, Mom and Denis. Errol was a father figure and a very dear friend to me. He and Mom spent a lot of time up at the lake with Tara and we three had many fun evenings listening to good tunes, laughing and playing cards. He was a true gentleman with a quick wit and a wonderful laugh. He made friends easily in travels and at home. I will really miss his warmth, support, humour and our thoughtful conversations. My love, support and sympathy to Keith, Kurt, Kim, Ginette, Patricia, all the sweet grands and the rest of the family.
Brian M. Lees
Thank you Mr. Patrick for your friendship and guidance as RSM. Heather and I enjoyed serving and socializing with Bunny and yourself during several postings, both here at home and overseas. May eternal rest be granted to you and Bunny until we meet again. Ubique.
Andy Wilkins
One of the greatest Gunners I ever had the pleasure of knowing. Stand Easy Errol.
Bob Macdonald
Very sorry for your family’s loss. I remember Errol very well from Hemer, as my Father and Mother were good friends with him and his wife. When think of “Mr. Patrick” the image that came to my mind was of a consummate gentleman.
Peter Forsberg
Mr. Patrick, as we all knew Errol, was a fine Canadian - an example one should follow. We loved and respected Mr. Patrick for his fine sense of humour and concern for his fellow soldiers and remember him as a devoted member of the Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery. Errol cared for his fellow Canadians and will be remembered for his many fine qualities. He leaves behind a fine family devoted to his memory.
I have known Mr. Patrick, CWO, RSM, SMIG and Master Gunner since my earliest days in the RCA. He has attained the highest levels of qualification and has always set an exemplary standard as a professional soldier as well as a caring human being. I have also valued his friendship and support as a member of the Legion in supporting our veterans. Sincerest condolences to his family for this terrible loss. I am privileged to have known such a fine gentleman.