Patricia (Pat) Lawrie
LAWRIE, Patricia (Pat) (née Leader)
February 9, 1938 – April 25, 2026
Patricia “Pat” Lawrie passed away on April 25, 2026, at the age of 88.
Pat lived a life rooted in love, family, and fierce independence. She was predeceased by the love of her life, Michael “Mike” Lawrie, whom she married in 1958. Their partnership shaped her world, and after his passing in 2010, she carried that love with her every day.
Pat’s greatest pride and purpose was her family. While she did work later in life, her heart and energy were always centered on being a mother first. She is lovingly remembered by her children Greg Lawrie, Christine Tucker, and Melinda (Lini) Botter, and their partners Laura, Cliff, and Gary. She was a proud grandmother to Kathleen, Meghan, Zach, Max, Madison, and Blake, and a cherished great-grandmother to Molly, Emma, Valentina, Melina, Charlotte, and Mackenzie, all of whom brought her immense joy.
Pat also leaves behind her brother Barney Leader and brother-in-law Brian Osatchuk.
Pat had a gift with people. She went out of her way to connect, always asking thoughtful questions, genuinely listening, and making others feel seen. She had many friends and was always ready for a social gathering, bringing laughter and warmth wherever she went. She had a deep appreciation for life’s small kindnesses and returned them tenfold, often through her handmade cards and heartfelt thank you notes.
She was known for her signature lasagna, a staple at many family gatherings, a tradition that will now be voluntold to someone in the family. Pat also had a vibrant sense of style; always embracing colour & pattern in her own way. Hair done, lipstick on… and often her soft pink nail polish still drying as she walked out the door. She was a woman that carried herself with a confidence that never reflected her age.
After Mike’s passing, Pat found companionship in her beloved cockapoos. Maggie brought her comfort for many years, and more recently, Toby became her constant companion, her “main squeeze” and daily partner.
Pat found joy in the simple, meaningful things. She loved her garden (especially the Iris flower) and expressed her creativity as an artist, working in oils and acrylics. Strawberries were Mike’s favorite and they always found their way onto countless canvases (and even the occasional mini bike), a quiet and lasting tribute to their life together.
She will be remembered for the laughter she shared and the memories she created. Pat had a close-knit circle of friends in Rockwood and, more recently, embraced a new chapter at Guelph Lake Commons, where she thoroughly enjoyed both the friendships and the need to never cook a meal.
A lifelong friendship with Carol Burak was one of the constants of Pat’s life. The two met at age 10 in Mimico and remained inseparable ever since. They were BFF’s long before that term existed. They always said from saddle shoes to compression stockings was the story of their friendship. Their daily ritual of checking in with one another (right up to the very last day) ensuring they were both alive & well each day.
True to her spirit, Pat remained active and engaged. She had plans to tidy up her Rockwood garden the day of her passing. We find peace in knowing she passed without suffering, while Cracklin’ Rosie by Neil Diamond was playing in the background. A fitting soundtrack for a life filled with heart, humour, and connection.
Pat’s family finds comfort in knowing she has moved on to the next phase of her journey, reunited with Mike.
A celebration of Pat’s life will be held at Farnham Cemetery and Arkell United Church, with the date to be confirmed. Details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements are finalized. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.
She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever part of the lives she touched.
A tree will be planted in memory of Patricia (Pat) Lawrie in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.