Patricia (Pat) Ann Young-Oke (Knight ) passed away February 8th , 2018 at Victoria Village Manor in Barrie in her 74th year. She is survived by her daughter Wendy Massarotto (Darrin Debrusk) and son David Oke husband George and his children Duane, Wendy, Tracey, and Angela. Also survived by her grandchildren Mitchell, Dalton, Tyler, Alexis and Sierra and great granddaughter Luna and George’s grandchildren Justin, Kyle, Sophie, Jacob, Nathan, Matthew, Shanda, Robin, Sarah, Emma, Abby, Erin and great granddaughter Matilda.
Pat grew up in Huntsville, the daughter of Ivan and Mae Knight. Sister to Philip (Bonnie) predeceased.
She married Ted Oke in 1963 and they moved to Barrie where she raised her family and began teaching at Minesing and Prince of Wales schools, she completed her 33year career at King Edward Public School.
She later married George in 1997 and the following year they returned to Huntsville where they resided in the home her brother built, for nearly 20 years.
Her passion for teaching children carried over into her church life as she enjoyed volunteering her time at the annual vacation bible school at Riverside Baptist Church in Huntsville.
In 2007 Pat was diagnosed with dementia and fought the disease with strength and courage. She moved in to Victoria Village Manor in 2013 and resided there until her passing. Everyone commented of her kind and gentle demeanour.
The family would like to thank the entire staff at Victoria Village Manor for their exceptional care, especially during her final days. They went above and beyond as they made Pat’s life as comfortable as possible and helped her go through this final transition of her journey with dignity and love.
Pat was a member at Riverside Baptist Church and had received many cherished thoughts and prayers.
A Memorial Service will be held at Riverside Baptist Church, 11 Riverside Drive, Huntsville on Saturday, May 12, 2018 at 2 p.m.
Donations in Pat’s memory would be greatly appreciated for Victoria Village Manor Recreational Projects, 78 Ross Street, Barrie, ON L4N 1G3 or a charity of your choice.
Cynthia Iaboni
I’m very sorry for your loss George. Pat was a wonderful woman. I remember how happy you were the day you married her. It was a beautiful day. My thoughts are with you and all of the family.Cynthia
Darlene, Kate and Marilyn
We are so sorry for your loss, we have many fond memories with Aunt Pat. She will be missed!
Ginny and Len Smith
George and family–so sorry to hear of Pat’s passing–what a gentle person -and such a tough last few years
We are thinking of you
Chris grant
Mrs Oke was absolutely one of my favourite teacher over my years in school we moved to Barrie I believe around 1978 or 1979 not exactly sure and ended up at king Edward public school being from huntsville and her also was pretty cool to me at least I thought so at time . I would like to say she played a great role in my schooling because I never got I always compared her to everyone of my teachers even though I had many good ones none ever seem to measure up to her she was very kind and great lady and was always a very happy lady I always wondered where she got to I’m so sorry I had to find out this way thank you for that special spot in my mind may u Rest In Peace thanks again Chris Grant
Martha Briggs Watson
I have such fond memories of dear Pat, especially from our years together in the Huntsville High School band, and meeting her on occasion after she had moved back to Huntsville. Her warm smile was so contagious, and we always had such happy times reminiscing!
Don & Dawneva Mason
Dear Wendy, Dave and families. So sorry to hear about your mom. Many memories in the old neighbourhood. Sending prayers and hugs to all.
Linda & Bruce Newton
Linda and I are saddened to hear of Pat’s passing. We know she is no longer suffering. I enjoyed working with Pat at King Edward. She always had a beautiful smile and a nice word for everyone!
Martha Watson
I have so many fond memories from high school of the beautiful Pat. She had the most infectious smile, and was truly lovely, both inside and out. I am thinking of her family with warmest thoughts and prayers.
Barbara Richmond
Dear George and Family,I was very sorry to read of Pat’s passing. George, you sharing about Pat’s struggle to me when we met at the school reunion, you and the family have had a huge heartache for many years. I am sure you and the family will find comfort in knowing she is at peace and in the arms of God.
Words are never enough at this time, but may you have some comfort in knowing others are thinking of you all in your time of loss
My condolences to you and the family.
Nancy Hebner Schroder
George & family: I am so sorry to learn of Pat’s passing. She was a very gentle lady with a kind soul. I have known Pat for many years. My thoughts are with you and your family at this very difficult time
Jim Armishaw
George and family, condolences. I remember Pat to be a very kind and considerate individual, with a good sense of humour.