Obituary of Irma Patricia Burgess

With love and sadness, we announce the passing of Irma Patricia "Pat" (Willis) Burgess, 85, who passed away peacefully surrounded by love on Saturday, October 11, 2025, in Windsor.

Born on Fogo Island, NL, on November 27, 1939, Pat was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, David, with whom she shared a lifetime of cherished memories; as well as her parents, brothers and sisters.

Pat trained and worked as a teacher, later transitioning into the banking profession and other roles that allowed her to prioritize time with her family. She loved little children and in later years she worked as a nanny. She was actively involved in her community, volunteering with the Kinsmen Club, the United Church Women (UCW), and the Lions Club, where she was honored with the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship Award for her outstanding service. Her life reflected her deep commitment to both her family and her values.

Pat cherished time with her family and welcomed loved ones around her table for holiday dinners, where laughter, storytelling, and good food were always in abundance. She was an avid reader, a talented cook, and loved baking bread. Her hands were rarely still — she enjoyed sewing and she was often found knitting mittens for local schools and the church, as well as crafting prayer shawls for the church.

She leaves to mourn her son, Paul Burgess (Sue); daughter, Shauna Cater; and her cherished grandchildren, Megan Cater, Nick Harvie, Ryan Harvie (Courtney), Jacquie Rowbotham (Alex), and Blair Rowbotham (Megan); as well as her great-grandchildren, Ethan and Izzy Rowbotham and Mason and Milo Harvie. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her and loved her dearly.

Pat’s life was rich with stories, humour, and a deep pride in her Newfoundland roots. Her legacy is one of strength, spirit, family and community.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff at Dykeland Lodge for the wonderful care that they gave Pat while she was living there.

Arrangements for cremation have been entrusted to DeMont Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 419 Albert St., Windsor (902-798-8317), where you can join the family for a visitation on Saturday, October 18th from 6-8 p.m. A service celebrating Pat’s life will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 19th in the funeral home chapel, Rev. Chris Matheson officiating. A reception will follow in the funeral home’s Elmcroft Reception Centre. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Pat may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting: www.demontfamilyfuneralhome.ca