On Sunday, January 28th, Pat passed away with his family by his side. Pat is lovingly remembered by his wife of 60 years, Gerry, sons Darren (Colleen), Darcy (Tammy) and daughter Marnie (Jeff). Left with wonderful memories of their Pa are 6 grandchildren, Natalie and Graham Oliphant, Lyndsey and Reece Oliphant and Sam and Kyle Kosik. Pat is fondly remembered by his sister Dody (Barry) Davis, and brother-in-law Larry (Candace) Herbert. He is predeceased by his mother Eva Oliphant, his sister June (Jock) Keith, brother Eric (Marg) Oliphant, sister Barb (Bill) Robinson, father and mother-in-law Bea and Earl Herbert, brother-in-law Darryl Herbert and nephew Travis Herbert. Also left to mourn are many of “Uncle Pat’s” numerous nieces and nephews.
Pat was born on October 30, 1942 in Hudson, Ontario but grew up in Dryden. Dryden was a community that Pat loved and cherished. He served two terms on Town Council, volunteered for 30+ years with the Dryden Fire Service and was the President of the Dryden Power Toboggan Club. He enjoyed many years both playing for the Dryden Rockets and coaching hockey. He loved the arena so much he was even a “rink rat” in his early years.
Retirement was a welcoming new world for Pat as it allowed him and Gerry to enjoy their favorite things like camping, yard work and visiting with family and friends. Most Friday nights were spent gathering with the supper club gang where good food and stories were shared. Going for coffee with his buddies happened frequently and we are sure many of the world’s problems were solved during that time. In retirement, Pat renewed his interest in fishing and tried to get out as much as he could to catch the big one. Pat and Gerry spent 10 years wintering in Arizona and made many long lasting friendships.
It is difficult to summarize in a few paragraphs what a man like Pat meant to those who loved him. He put his love for family and community above all. All who knew him were greeted with his bright smile and unique and infectious laugh.
Pat and Gerry were known for their love of dancing. When the music started they hit the floor and showed off their talent. They inspired us all to want to learn how to jive. It is said that dancers do not need wings to fly. If there are truth in those words then Pat is flying high on the wings of his favorite songs.
Thank you to the staff at Dryden Regional Health Centre, Princess Court and to all the Nurses who went above and beyond to making us feel like Pat was their #1 priority. The sharing of your stories about Pat and his time spent in your care are some we will cherish forever. To Dr. Moir and Dr. Bester for their continuous care of the Oliphant family. As a family we appreciate your compassion and empathy when caring for others.
Condolences(10)-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Previous Stanley Church
Next Conrad Schneider
Susan Bunney says
January 31, 2024 at 10:22 pmHeartfelt condolences ❤️
Tracy Callewaert says
January 31, 2024 at 10:57 pmDeepest condolences to Gerry and family during this time. I will miss seeing Pat at work with his goofy grin. Or sitting on a bench with Gerry having some chip box during the summer.
Brian and Ann Parsons says
February 2, 2024 at 7:09 pmCondolence to the Oliphant family. Special hugs to Darcy and Tammy.
Willow says
February 1, 2024 at 3:54 pmThinking of you
Jana and Ross Lovie says
February 1, 2024 at 3:57 pmOur condolences to Gerry, Darren, Darcy and Marnie and their families. Pat was one of a kind! We always noticed his big smile when we saw him. He was a great neighbor when we lived on Elizabeth. Share your memories….he is not gone but lives on in your hearts.
Angel M Young says
February 1, 2024 at 7:10 pmI am so sorry to hear of the loss of Pat, he will be missed by so many. He was an amazing person. Marty loved working with him at Fire and Safety many moons ago. My kids always thought he could touch the sky cause was so tall. My thoughts and prayers are with you Gerry and the family during this time. Sending hugs to all. <3
Kevin Kameda says
February 2, 2024 at 3:12 pmCondolences to the family, sad news to hear but I can’t help smiling as I reflect…a great guy who leaves many fond memories.
Don Compardo says
February 2, 2024 at 5:03 pmMy condolences go out to Gerry and the rest of the Oliphant family. You will always have memories of time spent together and he will always be in your heart.
Bob Hampe says
February 2, 2024 at 6:04 pmOur condolences to the Oliphants. Pat was such a good guy.
Brian C Bates says
February 6, 2024 at 4:22 pmOne of a kind. Will miss our chats. Big part of Dryden. Condolences to all.
Brian and Jo Anne Bates
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Princess Court DECO, Box 953, Dryden, ON P8N 3E3 or Northern Critters in Need, Box 1023, Ignace, ON P0T 1T0.
All Rights Reserved