Patricia May Turner passed away peacefully on June 13, 2023 while surrounded by her adoring family. She is survived by her husband Claren, their two children Riana (Troy) and Lee (Monica), her grandchildren, who she lovingly referred to as the “lights of her life” Anissa, Aspen, and Holt and her sister Christina.
Pat was born in Saskatchewan and raised in Flin Flon. She left her hometown when she travelled to Winnipeg to pursue a career in education. It was there that she met and married the love of her life, Claren Turner. Following their marriage in 1969, they settled in Brandon.
Pat cherished her role as a teacher, and taught her whole career with the exception of choosing to stay home with her son and daughter during their precious childhood years. She worked at a number of schools including Vincent Massey, J.R. Reid, and Linden Lanes. Even in retirement, she continued to inspire and educate children by teaching Sunday school at her beloved church, St. Matthews Cathedral.
Those who knew Pat know her favourite place was Wellman Lake. This was where she spent countless summers making priceless memories with her family. She could often be found “taking a dip” in the lake, sitting and reading in the sun, or simply pausing to appreciate the world around her.
Pat did everything in life with passion, meaning, and authenticity. She delighted in exploring the outdoors, crafting and creating with her grandchildren, and loved to make her grandmother’s fudge at Christmas. Pat sang joyfully and was an enthusiastic part of the “Women in Harmony” singing group. An example of her care and dedication — in her perfect teacher’s penmanship she would put small notes on gifts to loved ones, wanting to share the meaning of what was beneath the wrapping paper. She was fearless and devoted, loyal and patient. Pat’s life was defined by her grace and her spirit of generosity. She lived her life to the fullest while ensuring that those around her were always left feeling loved and seen.
You will always be in our hearts. Until we meet again.
Funeral service will be held at St .Matthews Anglican Cathedral, 403 13th Street, Brandon, MB on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at 2p.m.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Pat’s memorial page by using the comment field below.
Our sincerest condolences to Claren, Rianna and Lee and families. Pat was the “Best Mom” then “Best Teacher” through her pleasant, positive and sincere abilities to create a learning environment. Her natural instinct to know exactly what to say to children diverted any situation/thoughts into a fun \laughing experience. If my memory is correct Myles and Lee attended Wee Wisdom nursery from the first day it opened. The Turner home on 25th street near Fleming was the “Best neighborhood “ place to play because of Pat’s love for children.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Turner family at this time. Sincerely Myles, Riley and Dale Peake
Sincere condolences to you and your family Claren.Thinking of all of you at this difficult time.
Eric Penner
Claren, Riana and Lee – we’re so saddened to hear of Pat’s passing. Please accept our condolences and our wish that you will find some peace and comfort in the memories of the times you shared together.
“Never. We never lose our loved ones. They accompany us; they don’t disappear from our lives. We are merely in different rooms.”
– Paulo Coehlo
It is quite possible that I would have not made it through my undergrad programs without Patty. An incredibly generous, kind, loving woman, who truly did make people feel seen. I can still hear her voice saying “you go, woman!”
I am so grateful to have known her during my formative years.
Claren, Riana, Lee and families, I am so sorry for your loss.
I am so sorry to read about Pat’s passing. May all of your wonderful memories comfort you during this difficult time. My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.
So sorry to hear about Pat’s passing Claren and family. May your memories guide you through this time and bring you together. My sincere condolences
Joanne Broatch
My sincere condolences to you, Claren, and your family. Although Pat and I did not meet often I know that she was a dedicated educator, with a little help from your willingness to gather whatever books she might need, and a loving and caring woman to all of her family and friends. We are so sorry for your loss.
So sorry to hear this news Claren. My thoughts are with you and your family. I only met Pat once but I remember how you always talked about her with such love and endearment.
Our sincere condolences to you and your family Claren ,our thoughts are with you.