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Patrick (Pat) Louis McALLISTER

November 16, 2014

McAllisterPatNov16

McALLISTER

Patrick (Pat) Louis

Ret. Sgt PO2

Feb. 29, 1948 - Nov. 16, 2014

Pat passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side, after a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer, at the age of 66 years. Loving husband and faithful companion of Candy for 31 years, caring father of Dale (d. 1970), Mark (Nora), Paul and Catherine, proud grandfather of Tasha Daniels, Carisa Van de Wetering, Alimah and Naia, thoughtful brother of Jim (Barb), Judy, David (Joyce), Gary and Dale Grant and former husband and friend of Marilyn Crooker. Pat was born in Blacks Harbour, New Brunswick to Robert McAllister and Theresa Roit (d. 1995). Pat was destined for a life in the military when he became a sea cadet at 12 years old. Before that, Pat's love for the game of golf was born when he travelled to Florida as a teenager and had the opportunity to caddie for Arnold Palmer at one point. He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy in 1968 and began his career in Cornwallis, Nova Scotia before moving to Halifax to serve aboard the HMCS Terra Nova. He also quickly became known as a bit of a cowboy and earned the nickname "Country Mac" while wearing his boots on board ship. Pat devoted his life to being a sailor and soldier from the start. One of his first opportunities to serve overseas was a mission to Egypt, setting the tone for other future adventures across the country and around the world. Over time, Pat would take part in UN peacekeeping duties in Bosnia and Golan Heights. As a young man, Pat was able to overcome a number of obstacles and show his resilience. He quickly became the strong and proud man that his friends and family would recognize over the years. He was a proven leader both while on duty and in his off-time during recreational activities and volunteer work. Pat would spend countless hours helping organize activities and events, mentoring and coaching young people at the variety of bases where he was stationed from coast to coast. He also spent a great deal of time contributing to local TOPS chapters and other organizations in the communities where he lived. Each and every stroke along the way, Pat loved his time on the golf course. He was a fixture in the clubhouse no matter where he ended up. He was always competing in leagues and tournaments while keeping a smile on his face and joking with others. Pat will be remembered for his sarcastic wit and sense of humour, traits that attracted many close friends through the years. Although he retired from the military, Pat never stopped serving, either as a reserve or as a member and Sergeant-at-Arms for the Royal Canadian Legion in Innisfail. He even had the opportunity to reclaim his title as "Country Mac" while donning his cowboy hat and boots regularly. Pat's cancer diagnosis and continued fight to beat the disease solidified how tough and resilient he was. His efforts to create awareness and raise money while doing so demonstrated an incredible example for others. He will forever be loved and missed by all those who were blessed to have him touch their lives. May he rest in peace. Memorial donations may be made to the Innisfail Legion or to the Red Deer Cancer Centre. A memorial service will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion, Innisfail, Branch 104 on Thursday, November 20, 2014 at 1:00 pm.

HEARTLAND FUNERAL SERVICES LTD., INNISFAIL

entrusted with arrangements. 403-227-0006

www.heartlandfuneralservices.com