Walter Patterson

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Alexander Walter "Wattie" Patterson, 79, of Marsh St., on Wednesday, February 25, 2015, in the Aberdeen Hospital of a massive stroke. He was a son of the late Walter and Margaret (Kelly) Patterson. Walter had a keen interest in history and amazed many with his vivid recollections of dates and past events, especially to do with the family. He was a great lover of horses and for many years as a younger man, worked with them at the local racetrack, Woodbine in Toronto, Yonkers in New York, Florida, as well as private homes. He enjoyed tinkering with engines, putting to use his Small Engine course, of which he was so proud. Wattie took much pleasure in socializing with his family and his coffee buddies, reading, walking, and following boxing and politics. He is survived by twin sisters: Joyce Burke, New Glasgow; Jean Kell, Hammonds Plains; brother: Edward (Shirley), New Glasgow with whose children he shared a special bond. He was "Hobbie" to Courtney, Ashley, Zachary, and Colby, and faithfully attended all their hockey games, concerts and events. He is also survived by other nieces and nephews in Nova Scotia, P.E.I., Ontario and Alberta, as well as a sister-in-law: Adrienne Bellavance, New Glasgow. He was predeceased by sisters, Kay and Carol (twins) in infancy; Sister Janet Patterson; Marilyn Patterson and Mary (Stewart) Cameron; brothers: George (Ev); and Donald; and brothers-in-law, Anthony Kell and Joe Burke. Walter, a severe epileptic from the age of 12, whose life changed course due to this disease, fulfilled his wish of donating his brain to Maritime Brain Tissue Bank for study, in the hopes of helping others with this condition. Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow. Funeral mass 2 pm Saturday, July 25, in Saint John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, with Father Gary MacPherson officiating. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery. Donations may be made to The Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia or the Salvation Army. The family would like to sincerely thank Dr. Soloman, Dr. Sharbaf, and Dr. Farrell who were involved with Walter's care, as well as the nurses on 4 South and the Intensive Care Unit of the Aberdeen Hospital. Also special thanks to Brian and Greg at R.H. Porter Funeral Home for their kindness and assistance.