James “Patrick” Stratton Oliphant
October 30, 1942 – January 28, 2024
On Sunday, January 28th, Pat passed away with his family by his side. Pat is lovingly remembered by his wife of 60 years, Gerry, sons Darren (Colleen), Darcy (Tammy) and daughter Marnie (Jeff). Left with wonderful memories of their Pa are 6 grandchildren, Natalie and Graham Oliphant, Lyndsey and Reece Oliphant and Sam and Kyle Kosik. Pat is fondly remembered by his sister Dody (Barry) Davis, and brother-in-law Larry (Candace) Herbert. He is predeceased by his mother Eva Oliphant, his sister June (Jock) Keith, brother Eric (Marg) Oliphant, sister Barb (Bill) Robinson, father and mother-in-law Bea and Earl Herbert, brother-in-law Darryl Herbert and nephew Travis Herbert. Also left to mourn are many of “Uncle Pat’s” numerous nieces and nephews.
Pat was born on October 30, 1942 in Hudson, Ontario but grew up in Dryden. Dryden was a community that Pat loved and cherished. He served two terms on Town Council, volunteered for 30+ years with the Dryden Fire Service and was the President of the Dryden Power Toboggan Club. He enjoyed many years both playing for the Dryden Rockets and coaching hockey. He loved the arena so much he was even a “rink rat” in his early years.
Retirement was a welcoming new world for Pat as it allowed him and Gerry to enjoy their favorite things like camping, yard work and visiting with family and friends. Most Friday nights were spent gathering with the supper club gang where good food and stories were shared. Going for coffee with his buddies happened frequently and we are sure many of the world’s problems were solved during that time. In retirement, Pat renewed his interest in fishing and tried to get out as much as he could to catch the big one. Pat and Gerry spent 10 years wintering in Arizona and made many long lasting friendships.
It is difficult to summarize in a few paragraphs what a man like Pat meant to those who loved him. He put his love for family and community above all. All who knew him were greeted with his bright smile and unique and infectious laugh.
Pat and Gerry were known for their love of dancing. When the music started they hit the floor and showed off their talent. They inspired us all to want to learn how to jive. It is said that dancers do not need wings to fly. If there are truth in those words then Pat is flying high on the wings of his favorite songs.
Thank you to the staff at Dryden Regional Health Centre, Princess Court and to all the Nurses who went above and beyond to making us feel like Pat was their #1 priority. The sharing of your stories about Pat and his time spent in your care are some we will cherish forever. To Dr. Moir and Dr. Bester for their continuous care of the Oliphant family. As a family we appreciate your compassion and empathy when caring for others.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, February 2, 2024, at 11 a.m. at The Centre with Bob Stevens officiating.
Interment will take place at a later date.
Please join us via Zoom if unable to attend: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86730322804?pwd=MRbdeEyHE7acOQxnzgKFnznGoHqOhr.1
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Princess Court DECO, Box 953, Dryden, ON P8N 3E3 or Northern Critters in Need, Box 1023, Ignace, ON P0T 1T0.
Arrangements entrusted to the Dryden Community Funeral Home, 249 Grand Trunk Avenue, Dryden, ON P8N 2X3.
