Obituary of FRANCES JULIANNA PATRICK

Frances Julianna Patrick (nee Roberts/Hrybyniuk) 

March 7, 1929 – March 12, 2022 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Frances Patrick, with her son by her side, at the age of 93. She was predeceased by her husband of 44 years, John Patrick, her loving parents, Martin and Angela Roberts, as well as a loyal and dedicated Aunt, Jessica Repeta. Left to cherish her precious memory are her three children Carol Weedmark, Steven Patrick (Stephanie Bourbonnais) and Angela Patrick; grandchildren Cameron Patrick (Samantha), Bryce Weedmark (Chris) and Ian Weedmark (Jayson); step-grandchildren Shelby and Luc Bourbonnais; and great-grandchildren Rowan and Willow Patrick. 

Frances was born on March 7, 1929, in Winnipeg’s North End, where she resided her whole life. She attended William Whyte Elementary and Isaac Newton High School, graduating in 1946. She eventually went to work for the Hudson’s Bay Company, in their downtown offices, where she spent her entire career. She retired in 1992 after spending more than forty years with the company. In her youth, she also helped with the harvest at her grandparent’s farm in the Bird’s Hill area of Springfield. It was at a neighbouring farm that she met John...her husband to be. They wed on September 17, 1955. But before going on their honeymoon, they assisted John’s family in harvesting their crop. (This was the work ethic of the day.) 

Frances grew up in a time where more women were entering the work force and she was no different. However, what set her apart was her commitment to maintaining the traditions of an earlier era. The garden at the farm was exceptionally large and the work required to tend it great. Then there was the preserving and freezing of all the vegetables. Today, no one would consider doing any of this. In addition, there was the daily meal preparation; huge holiday feasts; baking; homemade soups; and it goes on and on. Mom, we cannot hold a candle to your work ethic.  

Frances will be remembered for her kind nature and mild manner. Her attitude towards life was not only shaped by her family, but by the events of the time. Having grown up through the Great Depression and World War Two, Frances knew never to sweat the small stuff and to value the things you have. In particular, she would often say, “when you have your health, you have everything.” She asked for nothing and appreciated everything. Her life was simple and humble. She was equally charitable towards all her family. Whether it was a gift of money, paying for a meal, or providing food, her generosity was unmatched. 

            Thank you to the staff on the fourth floor of Holy Family Nursing Home for the wonderful care, compassion and dedication shown towards Frances in her final years, especially during the Covid pandemic. She was afforded dignity and respect...you treated her as your own and we could not have asked for more. 

Please consider honouring Frances’ memory with a donation to the Holy Family Nursing Home. (Care of the Lubov Foundation) 

In accordance with her wishes, there will not be a service. Cremation has taken place and she will be laid to rest with her husband and family at Ukrainian National Cemetery in the R.M. of Springfield. (Notice of interment will be provided at a later date.) 

“What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us.” H. Keller