Obituary of Pat Best

PAT BEST With a passion for travel Pat Best arrived in Winnipeg, Manitoba on September 20, 1924 and departed from Bowmanville February 12, 2017. She was the daughter of Lillian and Albert Brewer and sister to Reg (Dorothy) Brewer and Dorothy (Jack) Bardeau. Leaving Winnipeg as a teenager she arrived in Toronto to finish school and start her lifelong profession as a hairdresser. From the Silhouette in Toronto to the “hairdressing room” on the farm in Solina, Pat had lifelong customers who were often more like family than clients. She met her husband Russell Best in Toronto. They were married in Toronto in 1948 and together they set out on the road to becoming farmers. This being a feat in itself, as neither of them had a farm background. Starting as hired help in Woodbridge, then renting a farm in Toronto and finally establishing a family farm (Fairwinds Farm) in Solina was the fulfillment of their dream. Sadly Russell passed away in 1993. The next generation Jenny (Eric) Bowman and son David Best were born in Toronto and Grant (Sandy) Best and Susan (Ron) White were born in Bowmanville. The grandkids Dianne (David) Orr, Aaron (Tasha) Bowman, Thomas, Chris (Steph) and Peter (deceased) Best and Jocelyn and Sabrina White were the fun part of the journey. The kids have many happy memories of time spent with Nana. Next came the great grandkids Simon and Michelle Orr, Aiden and Emma Bowman and Cooper Best. They too have memories of spending time with White Nana. When Pat set out on a mission it was with determination and passion. Elevators in the old Bowmanville Library, steeple on the Eldad United Church, extending the cemetery at Eldad United Church, Visual Arts Board, member of Solina’s Women’s Institute and seasonal decorating in the Eldad United Church and BOAA. If she saw a need for community betterment it was as good as done. Pat followed her passion of travel with Russell and later by herself. She felt the world was there to see so take the time to learn and enjoy. She touched her foot on all the continents and most of the countries within. In later years cruising was easier but still gave her the opportunity to see the Caribbean. There will be an empty place at the table for all future family celebrations. No more three layer cakes, Christmas pudding or carefully chosen cards for those special occasions. The next journey has begun for our Mom and with sadness we say bon voyage. The family invite you to help us Celebrate the Life of our Mom ~ Pat Best ~ on March 5th, 2017 from 2 – 5 pm at the Solina Community Centre. We will share our memories at 3 pm and would love to hear your memories and stories. Donations in her memory can be made to The Salvation Army Bowmanville, Solina Community Centre or a Charity of your Choice. Arrangements entrusted to NORTHCUTT ELLIOTT FUNERAL HOME, 53 Division Street North, Bowmanville.