Passed away on January 5, 2021 at the Ottawa Hospital (Civic) with his family at his side. He was born on April 27, 1930 to Alma and Errol Patrick in Montreal. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Bunny (nee Collins) and leaves in sorrow his loving children Kurt (Ginette); Kim (late Joseph); Keith (Patricia). Much-loved grandfather of Olivia (Dylan), Shane, Thomas (fiancée Sarah), Hannah, Vanessa, Erika. Predeceased by his brother Tony (Barbara) and special friend Stella, he will be deeply missed by his brothers Terry, and Teddy, sisters Tisha, Ty and Tanya as well as his nieces, nephews and friends from coast to coast, plus his furry canine companion Tara.
Errol grew up in Trinidad under the care of his paternal grandfather. At the tender age of 16, he moved to Vancouver and then joined the Canadian Army (35 years) as a Gunner in 1950 and served our country in the Korean War. As a member of the Canadian Armed Forces, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, he was deeply respected, served with honour and distinction, and was a trailblazer for Black Canadians to serve proudly in uniform. Throughout his life, and with his innovation to embrace technology in his later years, he was able to maintain and foster the multiple friendships that were of such great importance to him.
A devoted family man and husband, some of the family’s fondest memories were of exploring Canada and Europe on many camping adventures. He was a loving grandfather who was actively involved with each of their lives and encouraged them to love one another, live life to the fullest and always emphasized the importance of family. He was an active member of the Legion Branch 632 (Past President, Treasurer, and Poppy Fund organizer) and a strong advocate for the care of Veterans and believed “For me, every day is Remembrance Day”.
We would like to thank the staff at the A1 Geriatric Unit at TOH for the exceptional care and compassion they provided our father during his final days. In addition, thank you to Wendy and other wonderful neighbours on Vorlage Drive that supported his independent living for so many years.
Due to the Covid pandemic a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 632 or Charity of choice.
Stand Easy Dad.
“Ubique”
Digital Guestbook
Carol and Mark, children and grandchildren
CWO Nick Zacharuk
A true leader . It was an honour to serve with him. RIP Stand Easy
Al Hamilton
My deepest condolences to you and your family.
David Bradford
R.I.P. Gunner.
Thank you for service.
Rizalde Dequilla
I am sorry for the loss. Thought and prayer to the family. Respect to your life achievements. RIP Jumper, Errol.
Shawn Perry
Such a delightful life story for a fine gentleman. I am thinking of Keith, Kurt and Kim and their families for their great loss.
Brian McGrath
I met MrGnr Patrick in January 1961 when he was Sgt(AIG) Patrick and I was a wet behind the ears Officer Cadet. Working with Captain (IG) Monte Moffat it was his task to teach me and 16 others how to be Artillery Officers both in a technical sense and in a much broader “how to behave” sense. Their success an be measured by the close bond our class maintained over the following 35 years and by his inclusion as a respected member of that bond. Although he and i didn’t serve in the same unit after that year, I watched his impressive career with admiration but not surprise and I welcomed the happy chances when we met. He was a fine man.
Orleans Seniors 632
On behalf of our Seniors we send our condolences to Errols family he was an active member of our Seniors club and we enjoyed playing cards with him. We will deeply miss him and his stories and his humor. RIP our friend . Prayers to the family.
The Iverson Family
Keith, Kim, Kurt and extended family, may your Dad/Father-in-law, grandpa rest in peace with his dear beloved Bunny. We had the privilege of seeing your Dad at Pinewood Park every summer which was wonderful. He always had a kind word as we passed by his trailer. May he rest in peace.
Conrad Namiesniowski
I had the privilege of having Errol Patrick as my Sgt Major in my Battery in Germany. He was certainly one of the best I ever had during my service in the Artillery. When I retired some of the NCOs including Errol and I use to meet as retirees for a beer which I kept this up as long as I was able to get out. His friendship will be dearly missed. I hope his family will take solace from my best wishes and those from other Artillery members in this difficult time of loss. May he rest in peace.
RIP, dear friend. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your wonderful loving family. Love.