1931 - 2022
It is with great sadness that the family of Patricia Sturges announce her passing on October 29, 2022 at the age of 91 years.
She will be dearly missed by her children: Helen, Heather (John), Ian (Lorna), Norman (Stephanie); grandchildren: Lisa, Laurel, Hayley, Julia (Keith), Lesley, Erica (Kevin), Tara, Aileen, Adam; and great grandchildren: Emma, Alice and Evelyn.
Pat was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Phil; parents Robert and Caroline Spalding; brother, Fred, and grandson, Colin.
Born in Calgary, moving to Vancouver, B.C. at the age of 6, Pat graduated from Britannia High School in 1949. After graduation she worked to save money for an extensive trip to Europe which she embarked on in 1955. The independence and persistence to undertake a journey like this, particularly as a solo woman traveler at that time, are characteristics that she would portray continuously throughout her life, especially in her later years. On her return in 1956 Pat and Phil married. Phil worked for Woodward’s Stores and was transferred to the downtown Edmonton store in 1966. After a short spell in Edmonton, the family ultimately set down roots in St. Albert (1967) where they remained.
Family life and volunteer activities kept Pat very busy. Pat was actively involved with Girl Guides of Canada. She volunteered with Reach to Recovery for over 30 years, receiving a distinguished service award from the Canadian Cancer Society Alberta/NWT division in 2000. For the past 20+ years Pat volunteered her time and skills with the St. Albert Hospital Auxiliary Volunteer Association (SHAVA). When she was no longer physically working in the hospital gift shop, she continued to supply the shop with knitted goods, including Oilers and Elks-themed mittens. In appreciation of the many years of dedicated service to Volkssport, Pat and Phil Sturges, were honoured with Life-time Memberships in the St. Albert Trekkers Volkssport Club.
Her background in piano and strong love of music saw her playing trumpet and percussion with the Cosmopolitan Band and percussion with the St. Albert Community and Edmonton Schoolboys Alumni bands.
Unable to get together during COVID when Phil Sturges (1928-2021) passed away, a Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, December 4th, 2 pm at the St. Albert Inn (Grandin Room) for both Pat and Phil Sturges.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Pat’s name to a charity of one’s choice.
