Patricia Ann Nicholson, 66

It is with great sadness we announce the sudden passing of our beloved wife, mother and grandmother on Tuesday, May 19, 2009 at her home in Rainy River, Ont.
Pat was born in Rainy River, Ont on March 17, 1943 to the late Jack and Ruth Armstrong. In celebration of her Irish heritage, Patricia was named in honour of St. Patrick’s Day, at the insistence of her maternal grandfather, Edmund Kearney. Not a St. Patrick’s Day passed without Pat and those around her toasting the luck of the Irish and the joy of gathering with friends and family. Her good natured laughter will continue to ring every year in the memory of those toasting Pat on St. Patrick’s Day and wearing green in her honour.
In 1962 Pat bravely embarked on an adventure, moving to Winnipeg to train as a hairdresser. After working in Winnipeg for a few years, Pat returned home to open her own hair salon and become one of the first female business owners in the area. Initially located on Main Street, Pat’s Hair Fashions was a popular gathering spot for customers and socializing. It was on her return to Rainy River that Pat was introduced by her brother Larry to his fellow teacher, Lou Nicholson. Lou was new to the area and quickly taken by Pat’s charm and beauty. After the connection was made, they spent many hours traveling across country on their motorcycle and, as their family formed, she and Lou packed their kids, butterscotch candies and cassette tapes for annual trips to the east coast.
Pat was united in marriage to Lou Nicholson on July 12, 1969. Pat and Lou settled in Rainy River and raised two children, Sean and Shana. At a time when working outside of the home while raising a young family was unusual, Pat successfully juggled her roles as wife, mother and business woman. Despite working long hours, Pat was always there for her family, tending to cuts and scrapes, engineering camping trips and hosting large family gatherings.
Pat’s home was forever welcoming - no matter the hour or the occasion, there was always a spot at Pat’s kitchen table for family and friends, new and old. Pat loved music, and beamed with pride when her home was filled with the sounds of family members playing the guitars and singing along. She was a patient and attentive woman who was often the leaning post for loved ones that needed an ear, or a shoulder to cry on. Pat was one that always put the needs of others before her own, and was quick to change the subject with a “Don’t worry about me”, when people tried to focus on her needs.
Pat had a passion for curling and was very proud of THE eight-ender that she and her team scored at the Rainy River Curling Club. Ever the avid fan, the only activity that could pull her attention from her grandchildren was watching curling. Whether the Tournament of Hearts or the Brier, Pat spent many hours passionately cheering the TV and “advising” the teams with her cup of tea in hand.
Pat’s greatest pleasure in life was the company and joy of her children and grandchildren. She frequently traveled great distances to spend time with them, and was heart-broken when it came time to part company – these farewells were the rare times that her bright blue eyes glistened with tears.
Pat’s time on earth made it a better place, and those that knew her were blessed for having the opportunity to spend time with her. She is survived by her husband Lou, of Rainy River, Ont, son Sean (Brandy) of Fond du Lac, Wis, USA and daughter Shana (Greg) French of Toronto, Ont. Pat will be sadly missed by her grandchildren Shaila, Kylar, Jacob and Isaac.
Lovingly remembered by her siblings Larry (Myrna) Armstrong, Ralph (Debbie) Armstrong, Judy Anderson, John (Forest) Armstrong, Dan (Janice) Armstrong, and Debbie Curic (Ed Huck), also survived by many nieces and nephews. Pat was predeceased by her parents Jack and Ruth, sister Beverly Armstrong and son in-law Mark Ivall.
A celebration of Pat’s life was held at the Rainy River Knox United Church on Saturday May 23, 2009 at 2p.m. with Lay Pastor Carolyn Kreger officiating. Interment took place in Forest Lawn Cemetery on May 25, 2009.
Pall Bearers were Dean Armstrong, Darren Armstrong, Dave Armstrong, Johnny Anderson, Brent Anderson and Dan Armstrong Jr.
Honourary Pall Bearers were Myrna Armstrong, Sharon Marmus, Mugs Jackson, Susan Wolanicki, Patti Bonhomme and Clint Armstrong.
If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Rainy River Knox United Church, c/o Northridge Funeral Home, Box 89, Emo, Ontario P0W 1E0.
Online condolences may be offered at HYPERLINK “http://www.northridgefuneralhome.com/” www.northridgefuneralhome.com