SISTER GINGER PATCHEN 1944-2013

Condolences & Memories (11 entries)

• When Epiphany was in turmoil in 2011, left without a Pastor and no one to minister to my dying husband, the first person we phoned was Sister Ginger. She immediately suggested Pastor Stacy Moroz, who was at that time Pastor at Prince of Peace Lutheran and a former parishioner at Epiphany. Sister Ginger phoned him and the same day he arrived at Herb's bedside and (along with his wife Carrie) never left it. Of course, we know the rest of the story, and we at Epiphany now have our wonderful Pastor, Stacy Moroz. Sister Ginger's immediate, compassionate solution to our plight is a perfect example of her selfless dedication to all of her Lutheran flock. Jan, Dalton, Jeffrey and Amanda - Posted by: Jan Schultz (Parishoners) on: Oct 31, 2013

• I visited children who had special needs at Epiphany Children's center over the many years that Sr. Ginger was the director. I always stopped in to chat with her about how things were going with each child and we had many long discussions. I always enjoyed her perspective and her positive energy. I knew that any child that attended that center would be loved and cared for and were all special to her. I am grateful to have crossed paths with her in this life. Watch over all of us who work with children Sr. Ginger. - Posted by: Erin Bereznay (Behaviour Specialist, MB. Family Services) on: Oct 31, 2013

• Sister Ginger was one of my teachers at the day care I went to as a child. She was such a strong spirit. I remember how kind and loving she was. May she rest in peace - Posted by: Syrena Oswald (Student) on: Oct 28, 2013

• If we lived a thousand years we could not come close to all the kindnesses, generosities, countless donations, giving's, caring, nurturing and loving that Ginger gave and showed in her 69 years. She spoke "mother" in the truest sense of the word with her actions. She had a way of taking everyone under her wing, loving unconditionally and without judgment. She saw the potential in everyone. I marvelled at how she looked at life. She had the most beautiful vision emotionally speaking. She was an advocate for children, a model, a mentor, an inspiration and a friend. The world is a better place for good because of her. She loved and was loved and will be remembered and missed. Thank-you for being our friend. Cindy Nachtigall and family - Posted by: Cindy Nachtigall and family (Loving friend to our family/co-members of Epiphany Lutheran Church) on: Oct 28, 2013

• Working with Sr. Ginger at Epiphany Children's Centre, I witnessed first hand her love of children, and her tireless efforts to help each and every one of them reach their potential. Children at the Centre were provided with the best of everything, as Sr.Ginger wouldn't have it any other way. I recall one evening, after being told one boy had no "winter gear", Sr.G immediately headed out the door so he had a snowsuit and boots the following morning. On a personal note, there were times at work that Sr.Ginger was more like a surrogate mother to me, than a "boss". I will never forget her kindness and compassion. My heart goes out to her family. And of course her best friend, Sister Val. I have a hard time imagining one without the other. Kind of like the Deaconess version of "Laverne & Shirley". Rest well, Sister Ginger. Loved & missed too much to ever be forgotten. - Posted by: Joanne Campbell-Nash (Co-worker, Friend) on: Oct 28, 2013

• We were saddened and dismayed to hear of Sister Ginger's passing. She was a tireless volunteer and an integral part of Epiphany Lutheran Church - always stepping forward to participate in church activities whether it be singing in the choir, leading church services in the absence of the pastor or involvement with Church Council on Children Centre issues. God bless you, Sister Ginger... you will be sorely missed. - Posted by: Ronald and Judy Smith (Church Friend) on: Oct 27, 2013

• Sister Ginger was a beautiful person and a wonderful gift to ministry. Our work in diaconal ministry will forever be blessed by her presence. - Posted by: Keirra Maher ( fellow Diaconal Minister) on: Oct 26, 2013

• Dear Sister Ginger, I remember your great voice and compassionate ways. You ran a wonderful Children's Centre and I felt my child was safe and secure there. You were a shining light in this world and an inspiration. - Posted by: Lynn Malboeuf (Epiphany Church member) on: Oct 26, 2013

• Ginger was a dear friend and we miss her dearly. She loved being a teacher and a role model for persons with physical and mental challenges. The kids she cared for enjoyed having someone not much taller than they were. I will miss our long conversations and debates. She was one of our really good friends who kept us honest. Bye dear friend see you at sometime in the future and you live on in our memories. Love you Ginger - Posted by: Allan & Lynnette Stamler (Friend and neighbor) on: Oct 26, 2013

• Sr. Ginger was one of God's angels on earth. A great advocate for special needs children. We love you and will miss your smiling face. Please watch over Patrick. Kara, Richard, Garrett, Patrick Held. - Posted by: Kara held (Friend) on: Oct 26, 2013

• Early Childhood Education has lost one of its strongest advocates. Your love and care for staff, families and children will always be remembered. Personally, I have admired your strength and determination, and have been amazed to see such a person who is always so giving without any expectation. Although you are not with us anymore, your vision of providing quality care for ALL children will continue to guide us. Rest in peace. - Posted by: Deepa Raghavan ( Director, Epiphany Children's Centre.) on: Oct 26, 2013