Patrick Ashmore

Patrick died peacefully at home in Courtenay in the early morning of August 27 with his daughter and other family close by. He is survived by his daughter Nele Pigeon, sister Norah (Will), brother Peter (Terry), and nephews and nieces Gannon, William, Amy and Aaron.

Patrick was born and raised in Vancouver (parents Dr. Phil Ashmore and Jane Ashmore). His schools growing up included Maple Grove Elementary, Magee High School, Prince of Wales Mini School and the Quest Outdoor Program, and graduation from Mount Douglas High School in Victoria. Patrick enjoyed family long weekends and summer holidays at the family cabin on Big Gun Lake, including time with his aunt and uncle and cousins, Jane and Phillip.

Over the years he attended both the University of Victoria and McGill University. As a young man he lived in the Comox Valley, worked at Strathcona Park Lodge and built log homes with Ray and Nancy Greene and crew. He also travelled the world working on the Royal Viking Cruise ships.

Patrick lived in Europe for many years. In Brussels he worked in a law office as a translator and proofreader of documents. In Dublin he worked in construction, as a youth support worker, guide for visiting exchange students, and with an arborist as a groundsman. Along with his Irish name he inherited the opportunity to become an Irish citizen - to match his Irish soul.

For the past 5 years Patrick has lived again in the Comox Valley, moving back to BC to be closer to family. With courage and determination, he lived well and without complaint through the progressive challenges of ALS. Many will have seen or met Patrick out and about, downtown and beyond on his e-trike or scooter.

Patrick loved good food and drink, good music, good conversation and good company. He had a gift for making friends, both for an evening and for a lifetime. Through these last years the memories of his travels, adventures and friendships and the love and support of family and friends, near and far, provided Patrick much comfort and joy.

Patrick and family would also like to thank the many health care professionals and services who supported us with the information and equipment needed, and conversations enjoyed, these past few years. These include Dr. Woldnik at Dunsmuir Medical Clinic, Dr. Purin, Dr. Reggler, staff with VIHA Community Support Services, the provincial ALS Centre and BCALS Society, the Canadian Red Cross, BCITS. and Island Mediquip. We also appreciate the support of our neighbours at Creekside Commons and the special opportunity that allowed Patrick to live and be supported here at Creekside.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Creekside Commons in Courtenay in the afternoon of Sunday, September 30th. RSVP at cpashmore@gmail.com or 250-703-2144.

"So fill to me the parting glass Good night and joy be with you all"

From the Irish folk song "The Parting Glass"".