Lawrence George Patterson

When that fog horn blows
I will be coming home
I wanna hear it
I don't have to fear it
Smell the sea and feel the sky
Let your soul and spirit fly
Into the mystic
- Van Morrison

Obituary

Lawrence (Larry) George Patterson, aged 81, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 23, 2025, surrounded by the warmth of his loved ones at Michael Garron Hospital.

Larry was the first child of George and Veryl Patterson, born in Ottawa, Ontario on April 15, 1944, followed by his brother Ronald and his sister, Corinne. Beloved husband of Eggie (nee Garcia), loving father of Carol Lee and partner Rob Schramek, and George Leandro, cherished grandfather (Lolo) of Benjamin and Wilson Schramek, he will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he touched.

Larry's personality was characterized by his kindness, positivity, and levity. With his silly sense of humour and light-heartedness, he was a warm person to be around. He valued peace, honesty, and community and loved the close-knit village atmosphere of the Bain Co-op in the Riverdale neighbourhood of Toronto where he raised his family. Though they lived humbly, they gave generously and the door to their home was always open to friends and family.

In his younger years, he lived an active life and shared his joy of the great outdoors with his family, cycling, canoeing, and camping. Before the responsibilities of family life took hold, he travelled to Europe, the Soviet Union, and Southeast Asia to explore his interest in other societies and political systems.

Larry cared about people and had a helping hand which led to a career in social services as a Child and Youth Care Worker at a group home for boys, and eventually, to a position as a public servant for the City of Toronto in the Employment and Social Services Department.

Larry was a humble person who derived his happiness from the simple things in life: time with his family, a rub on his forehead from Eggie – or anyone in arm’s reach – summers at his trailer, riding his dirt bikes with his son, cueing up music from his favourite cassette tapes and CD’s, a glass of cold beer, barbecuing, planting vegetables, feeding the birds, and roasting marshmallows and hotdogs over the campfire with his grandsons.

In his later years, and certainly in the last few months of his life as his health declined, his calm and steady demeanour and quiet strength masked the depth of his health challenges.

We extend our gratitude to the medical team at Michael Garron Hospital whose care and compassion in Larry's final days gave us more time with our dearest father, husband, brother, Lolo, friend, and much-loved "Uncle Larry". Although his absence leaves a void, his warmth, kindness and gentle spirit will be remembered forever.

If desired, donations can be made to Michael Garron Hospital in memory of Larry Patterson at https://mghf.akaraisin.com/ui/memorial/p/inmemoryofLarryPatterson or to the Covenant House for homeless youth.

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Memory wall

October 6, 2025

So sorry about Larry's passing. This tribute is beautifully written & presented, just like the magical lucky life he lead while roaming & exploring this earth.

All those who engaged with him, either momentarily, or during his entire life, received a smattering, or an avalanche of his special charms. Now, the love & light he bequeathed to everyone will be nurtured though the sorrow, pain, grief & laughter of our collective memories of Larry (brother, husband, father, grandfather, friend, neighbour)

Although I had very limited interactions with him, the impression I will retain is an unassuming, quiet figure in a boisterous room of dense high energy Tagalog conversations peppered with English words. He was & is unforgettable.

Leanne Lee

October 2, 2025

Larry or Lolo as my two boys Benjamin and Wilson affectionately called their grandpa will very much be missed. In fact, Larry and Eggie honestly made it possible for Carol Lee and myself to start our family. Their open door policy and amount of love they showed us and our children was truly remarkable. Lolo loved his grandsons. He always lit up when they were around. At times, Lolo could be a man of few words but you could feel his genuine love for this family. Lolo loved spending time at his trailer, motorcycles, watching sports and being with family. I can't thank you enough Lolo for your open heart and open mind. Love Rob

Rob Schramek

September 18, 2025

A few more family photos.

Corinne Patterson

September 9, 2025

My sympathy to Eggie and all of Larry's family from one of the few Dent cousins left who knew Larry and Ronny as kids. We played together at the Smart/Patterson cottages at Allanwood (Wasaga)
Beach . I remember Great Aunt Carol and his parents, Pat and Veryl affectionately. Tara Lee and my elder daughter, Jenny, were both born at Women's College Hospital on the same ward and July day , 1975, I will let the few (aged) others in the Dent/Bradley clan with whom I am in contact with know of Larry's passing. "To everything there is a season" as the Good Book says . In sadness we can mourn the death a good man and at the same time happy family memories. of him.

Ken Dent

September 1, 2025

My condolences to everyone (especially family) who knew Cousin Larry. His humility, warm smile, kindness, quiet nature, and thoughtful insights on life will stay with me always. And it is Cousin Larry who gave me my nickname. May you live on Cousin in our hearts and minds, Gerbers.

Gary Warrick

August 30, 2025

You weren't just my brother in-law you became my true brother and one of the most genuine people I've ever known. You had that rare ability to make people feel at ease. REST IN PEACE. LARRY TILL WE MEET AGAIN.

Marlyn Patterson

August 29, 2025

Charlie and I are so sorry to hear this sad news.Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Rest in Peace Larry🙏

Yolanda Comendador

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