Obituary of Stuart William Patterson

Stuart “Skip” Patterson On May 12, 2020, Stuart “Skip” Patterson in his 95th year, peacefully went home to meet his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Stuart was born in Rodney, Ontario April 8, 1926. He left his hometown at the age of 17 to join the Royal Canadian Navy on March 8, 1944. He was assigned to the HMCS Prestonian on November 18, 1944 as part of escort group 28 based out of Halifax during World War II. At the end of the war in Europe, Stuart volunteered for service in the Pacific. He was discharged on January 4, 1946. Upon discharge Stuart returned to his hometown of Rodney where he met and married the love of his life Betty Campbell and they raised five wonderful children. Together they worked hard, first farming and then Stuart went to work for Union Gas until his retirement. Those that knew Stuart, knew him best as “Skip Patterson” the Pastor of the Rodney Christian Mission. Skip founded the Rodney Christian Mission and dedicated his life to serving the Lord and the community. Skip loved children and loved telling them about Jesus at “Navigators” every Wednesday night as well as Vacation Bible School. He also helped found the Rodney Legion Branch 525 and served as it’s Chaplain for many years. He was a dedicated volunteer at Parkwood Hospital Veterans Care where along with his wife Betty, they started a weekly Hymn Sing. In 2015, they were both recognized by St. Joseph’s Health Care London for their 45 years of volunteer service. Skip had a passion for people and in his later life was still trying to help others, by praying and preaching God’s word when he had the strength. His favourite question to his family when they visited him, was always “Any news in Rodney?” His quick wit, kind and compassionate spirit and genuine concern for every individual made him not only a great husband, father, grand-father and great-grandfather, but a friend to all he met. He truly practiced what he preached in life. Stuart is survived by his wife Betty, his five children Sheila (Dave), Wanda (Gary) and Wayne (Lana), Mark (Diane) and Ruth (Jeff), his brother Gerry Patterson (Betty), sister Eylla Rivest and sister-in-law Jean Hurd. He is the beloved grandpa to eight grand-children and great-grandpa to eight great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Stella (Gillies) Patterson, sister Ada McGahan and brother-in-laws Bud McGahan and Leon Rivest. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed by not only his family, but by the entire community. A private family graveside service will take place and a memorial will be held at a later date. A special thank you to all the staff at Beattie Manor, Dr. Sharma and Four Counties Health Services for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Skip’s memory to the charity of your choice. Condolences and cherished memories may be shared with Skip’s family at www.westelginfuneralhome.com DENNING'S OF RODNEY honoured to be entrusted with the care of Skip and his family. Skips favourite verse - Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.