January 7, 2023
In loving memory ~
Patricia Shirley Palmer, surrounded by the love of her family and friends, passed away peacefully at her home in Grand Forks, B.C. on the evening of Saturday, January 7th, 2023. She was 84.
Patricia was born in Saskatchewan to Leonard and Selina Shannon and grew up in Grand Forks, B.C. It was there she fell in love and married her husband of 66 years, Donald Alexander Palmer. Together they enjoyed a marriage that grew stronger with each passing year, serving as the foundation for their growing family. Patricia will be lovingly remembered by Don, her three daughters and their husbands: Lowana and Kurt Szalla of Kelowna, B.C., Lori Wakefield and Mike Gruen of Grand Forks, B.C., and Shawna Palmer and Murray Greenwood of Bellevue, WA, as well as their "big-brother" Bill Hermanson and his wife Judy.
As anyone who knew her could attest, Patricia enjoyed a special connection with each of her grandchildren, frequently sharing their latest news, showing probably too many pictures and videos, but always with the best intentions and overflowing with pride. Near or far, she was "the epitome of an amazing Gramma" and deeply loved by Laura Szalla (Brad Flinders) of La Paz, MX, Erin Wakefield (Nathan Klassen) and Joshua Wakefield of West Kelowna, B.C., Trevor Greenwood of Bellingham, WA and Luke Greenwood of Los Angeles, CA. Patricia felt incredibly blessed to also have two great-grandchildren, Karver and Rylen Klassen, who brought her constant joy and endless smiles. Her playful nature, kindness and sense of humour will sure to be carried into future generations.
Always among the first to help others and never afraid to try something new, Patricia enrolled at Selkirk College in 1983 and became a certified Long Term Care Assistant, working at the Boundary Hospital for several years. Her hobbies were many and included knitting, sewing, baking and cake decorating, so it was fitting when she opened The Carousel, a specialty craft shop, where she shared her creativity with many in the community. Patricia also volunteered countless hours for a variety of causes and was a long-time member of the Christina Lake Golf Club.
Patricia will be remembered for her fierce loyalty, long friendships, and her unconditional love for her family. Her courage in facing challenges with determination, dignity and never-ending grace was present until the end and will live on as part of her deserving legacy. As per Patricia's wishes, a Celebration of Life filled with music and laughter will be held at a later date. A fitting occasion for an extraordinary woman.
The family wishes to extend their deepest appreciation to Geordie Fekishazy for her years of care and compassion, beyond what words can fully express. We would also like to thank the Home-Care Palliative Nursing team for their support during Patricia's final days.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to support Parkinson's Disease research at www.parkinson.ca