Pat Wheatley Tribute

Pat Wheatley

Pat Wheatley died peacefully, at her home, on the evening of September 30. She bravely battled cancer for the past three years. She fought hard to stay with us for as long as she could, but we are relieved to know she is finally at peace. Pat was an accomplished calligrapher and a cherished member of Warmland Calligraphers. She served on the executive for many years in several capacities. Through her dedicated representation to the Cowichan Valley Arts Council she shared with information on local art talent with us. She had incredible artistic talent and loved using her own words for quotes. Pat was a positive influence in our Guild and freely shared her expertise with those less skilled. Her husband John mentioned that calligraphy provided her with immense joy. Lucy Hylkema interviewed Pat for the May 2008 edition of our Journal, Here are some words paraphrased from that article.

“Pat always says ‘everyone has a story’. One of her lifelong passions is the spoken word. She was very involved in Speech Arts and has been part of many theatre groups. Pat has definitely made the connection between the spoken and written words which is obvious in her calligraphy. She mentioned her fondness for obituaries—not in a morbid way, but as an acknowledgement of what someone can accomplish in their life. She does admit that not every obituary is an inspired celebration of human spirit, but she finds enough life stories that are encouraging that they are worth looking for and celebrating.” Pat‘s family captured her life story in her own obituary. She is celebrated and missed by us all.

I am so sorry to hear this news of Pat – a lovely woman who will be so missed. - Lorraine Douglas I shall miss Pat greatly. She was a special person, so kind, generous and giving in her spirit, thoughts, creativities and continued generosity and contributions to the Guild and its members.

My heart and mind go out to Pat as she makes her spiritual transition from this life. Pat and I shared thoughts regarding our spiritual paths and beliefs which had the common ground of compassion. - Simone LaVoie

Pat was such a talented person who shared her expertise quietly with those less-skilled.

It is so sad that COVID has robbed us of the chance to see her and add support to her struggle. - Bridget Bruneski Pat and her smiling face welcomed me to my first ever Guild meeting and she never stopped spreading her warmth. She was always encouraging, inclusive without exception and, in the last years, an inspiration. I will miss her strength and gentleness of spirit.

- Debbie Craig I loved her enthusiasm. Her most beautiful voice as she talked about her piece or about the activities of the Arts Council was such a pleasure to listen to. She gave many hours of devotion to the Guild and its activities which were so appreciated. - Betty Locke Pat was faithful about contributing a piece for our monthly galleries and several for our yearly exhibitions. What always impressed me was her curiosity to learn, and try, new techniques. The result was a layout and design that was 'out of the box' and very interesting.... with an unusual quote or her own wise words. - Carolynn Dallaire 15