Wednesday, January 4, 2017
Dear Ron, Janice, Debbie and Blair: Often, when one grows up next door to someone, their friendship remains framed in that time period – the so-called golden days. With Patsy (I always called her Patsy) our friendship blossomed later. After high-school we went our separate ways. She went to Ryerson to study fashion arts, then motorcycled through south-east Asia. An Indonesian block print she brought back with her is still framed on the wall in our house in Shediac. We became close friends in the late 70s when she opened her clothing store on Carleton Street. I designed the logo and stationery for her store. My girlfriend, Alison, (now my wife), had dinner at her house in Cabbagetown. I think Cathy Kidd – a mutual friend – may have also been there. Patsy and Alison connected instantly over their love of textiles. Two years ago, Patsy gave Alison all her weaving books and a huge box of yarns, materials, she said, that she’d like Alison to enjoy. With our mutual paths and the print on the wall, Patsy will always be with us. Four years ago, when my father died, Patsy was there for me. She’d visit me on Farmcrest Drive and I’d cook dinner. We laughed about all the practical jokes my Dad, Uncle Joe, or Dr. Bodrug played on each other. There were dozens of nutty stories. Then she’d invite me back to Aurora and cook for me. Mmmmm those coconut cream curries! For the last three years we’ve kept in touch via email, and phone calls – our last call, a month or so before she died. I’ve said this to Ron and in an email to Blair, but I have to say it again. Although Alison and I will miss Pat mightily, we feel fortunate to have known such a lovely woman and great friend. Sincerely, Alison & Colin Thornton
