William James ‘Jim’ Patterson
December 21, 1938 - March 1, 2023
After a prolonged illness, William James “Jim” Patterson passed away peacefully into the loving arms of God on Wednesday, March 1, 2023. Jim was born in Ballynahinch, Northern Ireland on December 21, 1938 and always spoke with great fondness about growing up in the Irish countryside. He used to claim to love the smell of pigs and referred to that as “a good, clean country smell.” The youngest of three children of Eliza and John, Jim was predeceased by his parents; brother Robert John; and his sister Sarah Smith, all of Northern Ireland. Jim married Joan Stewart in 1964 and they moved with their young family to London, Ontario in October, 1972 to join Joan’s sister Doreen, her husband Alex, and the rest of the Shamas family. Jim was a dedicated employee of Ford Motor Company for over 30 years, and was known for his clever wit, strong work ethic, and commitment to a job well done. In his spare time, Jim enjoyed traveling with Joan, tinkering with his car, and discussing current events. Jim enjoyed a wonderful retirement – especially all of the social events and new friendships he made at the Seniors Centre at the London Boys and Girls Club. Jim leaves behind his wife Joan; daughter Sharon (Jack, Jack’s children Jackie and Maggie); and son Terry. He will be remembered as a kind and affectionate husband and father, as well as a loyal and caring friend who was always ready to help someone in need. Cremation has taken place and a private service will be held in the spring. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Jim are asked to consider Parkinson Canada or a charity of their choice.
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Dear Joan, Sharon, Jack and Terry. We were so saddened to hear of Jim's passing. We have known your family since your arrival in London in the early 70's. At that time Ford Motor Company was searching for new employees and Alex Shamas asked me if I could arrange an interview for Jim. The company hired him immediately and he proved to be an exceptional worker and a very conscientious employee. He was always very careful to not have his union co-workers know of our friendship because I was in a management position. We have enjoyed so many times spent with Jim and Joan and family over the years and have many fond memories of those occasions. Jim loved politics and we appreciated his great sense of humor. He will be truly missed. May God support you all during this sad and difficult time.
My sincere condolences to you, Joan, Terry and Sharon and family in the loss of a dear husband and father. I've known Jim for over 20 years and will never forget his gentle charm and Irish humor. God bless you all during this difficult time. Thinking of you with love. "Happy St. Paddy's Day, Jim!"---Margaret Mueller
Joan and Family our Deepest Sympathy for your loss of Jim still remember good Time with you and Jim . Karin and Dave
Joan and family, So sorry for your loss. Jim was a wonderful man and will be missed by many friends. Our thoughts are with you.
Dear Joan, Sharon & Terry, we’re very sorry to learn of Jim’s passing and send you our sincere sympathies for your loss. We were very fond of Jim (and Joan too), and enjoyed our “over the fence” chats with Himself. Keeping you in our prayers.
I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Sharon and Family: Sending you my thoughts and prayers. Keep your memories of your father close.
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Terry ,all of us at geminare (RPS-Canada) are very sorry for your loss.
~ Rick Morayniss