OCKENDEN, Mary Patricia (Pat)

April 8, 1926 — November 5, 2016

After a full, rich life Pat Ockenden died in the Penticton hospice on Saturday, November 5^th, 2016 with family by her side.  She was born to Elizabeth (Bessie) and Robert (Bob) Slessor, April 8, 1926, in Swan Lake, Manitoba and grew up from early childhood in Edmonton, with siblings Bob, Winifred, Margaret and Bill.  In Edmonton she met (as children in church first) friend Doreen and her brother Gordon Ockenden. Pat and Gord were married in 1948. Before that, both served Canada in World War II, Pat as a WREN in the navy, flourishing as a performer in the Navy Show. She travelled to Britain by aircraft carrier and returned via a North American road trip, with great memories and stories. Gord was an RCAF Spitfire pilot, and made the air force his life’s work, retiring as Air Vice Marshall.  The military life suited Pat, as she skillfully managed a growing household of five boys and family moves around the world, including postings in France, five American locations and many parts of Canada. She thrived on family, and her own career as an elegant, witty, warm hostess and Base Commander’s wife.  Pat dove into each community through close friends, volunteering, church, and when she had time, she curled, played bridge, and golfed. Her faith was important to her throughout her life.  Retirement drew them to Westbank BC, in the Okanagan Valley, where Pat loved the views, the mild weather and a rich family and social life.  When Gordon passed away in 2000, Pat moved across the lake to the Mission area, deeply enjoying her lakeside ambiance and visits from sons, their partners and her grandchildren. Her final year was spent in Penticton at the Southridge Retirement Resort.

Pat is survived by her five sons: Tim (Marion) of Texas, Gary (Anna) of Nelson, BC, Monty (Beth) of Penticton, BC, Sandy (Nina) of Sherwood Park, Alberta, and Ted (Shelley) of Kamloops, BC. She’s also survived by nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and her brother Bill (Beryl) of Penticton.  Those who knew Pat will know that she brought smiles and joy to those around her. She was a beautiful, positive, graceful, appreciative and witty woman. This was true to her last days and she will be deeply missed and long remembered.  A service and reception will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, November 12 at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Rd, Kelowna. Instead of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Moog and Friends Hospice House, 1701 Government St, Penticton, BC V2A 6J9.  If you wish to send a condolence, post photos or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Share Your Condolences.”