Patricia Louise McElroy, nee Connor, peacefully passed away at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre on April 15th, 2024.
Born on November 23, 1943, to Judge Thomas Connor and Isabelle Connor in Port Arthur, Ontario, Patricia's life was marked by a profound commitment to education and a vibrant love for her family and diverse interests.
On August 29th, 1970, she married Bob McElroy, and together they shared a life filled with love and joy, raising two children, Erin and Robbie.
Patricia's dedication to learning was evident throughout her life. She excelled as both a student and a teacher, graduating from Central School, P.A.C.I., and Lakehead University. In 1965, she made history as receiving the first ever degree from Lakehead University, earning a BSc during a time when few women pursued careers in science.
Her passion for education extended to her career as a high school science teacher, where she inspired countless students from 1965 to 2004. Patricia's impact reached far and wide, teaching in Toronto, Schreiber, and Thunder Bay across both the Lakehead and Catholic school boards.
Beyond her professional life, Patricia cherished music, sharing many delightful memories from her days with the Port Arthur Girls Pipe Band alongside her friend Sandra. She was also a lifelong champion for the environment and was very proud of the fact that she and Bob transformed their home into an energy efficient carbon neutral building. In retirement, she indulged in various interests, including reading, crafts, travel, puzzles, and bridge. Her adventurous spirit took her to destinations like Mexico, Cuba, South Korea, Thailand, and China. An avid quilter, Patricia found joy in crafting beautiful pieces and spending time with her fellow quilters at the Rural 60 Plus Quilters group.
Patricia is survived by her loving husband Bob, her children Erin (Brad) and Rob, her granddaughters Taerin, Haeyn, and Olivia, as well as her sister Penelope Connor, her husband James Wigmore and their children Kathleen (Chris) and Alexander (Ginny)
As a devoted mother, wife, and grandmother, Patricia's warmth and kindness touched the lives of all who knew her. Her absence leaves a profound void, and she will be deeply missed, remembered always for her remarkable spirit and unwavering love.
Funeral Services for Patricia will be held in the chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre on Sunday, April 21, 2024 presided by Fr. Ciaran Donnelly at 1:00 p.m. Visitation for family and friends will begin one hour prior.
If so desired, expressions of sympathy may be made to Rural 60 Plus or the Thunder Bay Public Library.
Condolences may be offered at www.harbourviewfuneral.ca
