June 29, 1934 - January 25, 2022
Patricia "Pat" Alice Dahlquist (nee Mellish), 87, passed away peacefully with family by her side at Ty Watson House in Port Alberni, January 25, 2022. She was born June 29, 1934, in Vancouver BC, the only child of William "Bill" Mellish and Alice Mellish (nee Curry).
Pat was a member of the first graduating class of Alberni District Senior Secondary in 1952, the same year that she married her sweetheart Walter Dahlquist. Together they raised their four children in Woss Camp and Nimpkish Camp before finally settling back in Port Alberni, where Pat proudly supported her husband's career with the City and his involvement with Gyro International as District IV Governor.
Pat's long career with School District 70 began with her working as a teachers' aide at Hilton School, and continued through her many years in administration at the School Board office. Later she served as School District Trustee and was involved in the creation of early learning and alternate programs that have positively impacted the lives of children throughout SD70.
Pat remained active until the end of her life on the Board of Directors for Hummingbird Child Care Centre, the Board of Directors for Abashiri Twinning Society, and the Board of Directors for the Alberni District Historical Society. She enjoyed volunteering for the BC Summer Games, the BC Winter Games, the BC Disability Games, and the BC Senior Games. She was also a member of the Alberni Golf Club, enjoyed sewing, and cherished her time with family and friends at Sproat Lake as well as on numerous international cruises.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Walter.
She is survived by her children Randy Dahlquist (partner Sue Cool), Brett Dahlquist (partner Colleen), Lee Anne van Lent (partner Perry), Brun Dahlquist (partner Joanne), grandchildren Cierra Dahlquist, Sarah Brown, Adam Dahlquist, Cody LeClair, great grandchild Lucia Dahlquist, and dear friend Bill Cove.
Pat will be missed by family, friends and colleagues for her loyalty, wisdom, and kindness, and for her spirit of service and collaboration. Services remain TBA pending the lifting of pandemic restrictions. Those who wish to remember Pat in a special way may make gifts in her memory to Hummingbird Child Care Centre or Ty Watson House, and continue her legacy by providing service to children and community.