December 18, 1936 – August 11, 2023
In loving memory ~
It is with broken hearts we announce the passing of our husband, dad and grandpa, Rae Paterson. He is survived by the love of his life and sweetheart of 70 years, Phyllis Paterson; beloved daughters Charlaine Rausch (Allan) and Tracey Martin (Marv); treasured grandchildren Jesse Rausch (Emma), Jayden Rausch (Jillayne), Carly Martin and Ben Martin; brothers Ross Paterson (Helen) and Doug Paterson; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister-in-law Donna and his parents Alvin and Ethel Paterson.
Rae was born in Quill Lake, SK, where he developed his love of farm life and horses. With his family, he lived a short time in Rosetown and they then moved to Kindersley where he spent his formative years and met a girl with “the most beautiful red hair.” High school days were spent with Phyllis, and others who became life-long friends. Rae started his long career in menswear in Kindersley, continuing it in Saskatoon, Calgary and eventually Red Deer.
Rae and Phyllis married in 1959. They moved to Red Deer in 1963 where they started their family and built a beautiful life together. With a partner, Rob Rae Clothiers was established in 1970. Rae then owned the store until 1988, making everyone who walked through the door feel like a VIP. He enjoyed a second career as a Hallmark representative, retiring in 1999.
Rae was an avid supporter of the Red Deer community — involved for many years with the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce (director), Kinsmen (president), Jaycees (director, president and named outstanding Jaycee), Credit Grantors Association (president), the Red Deer Golf & Country Club (board member), Rotary Club and K40s.
Rae and Phyllis created fond memories through golf and travel with their dear friends. He loved to tell a joke, play his many musical instruments, host a game of pool, and attend his grandchildren’s numerous sporting events and other activities. His greatest pride and joy was his family. To quote Rae, “My life is my family.” Rae was unfailingly kind, generous and made everyone he met feel like an old friend. He was a true gentleman. We will forever miss him but are so grateful for the years we had together. He was the best.
Rae’s family expresses deep gratitude to the teams at Red Deer Regional Hospital’s Unit 33 and ER for their compassion and care.
If so desired, memorial donations may be made to Alberta Lung (www.ablung.ca) or Red Deer Regional Health Foundation (www.rdrhfoundation.com).
A celebration of Rae’s life will be held on Friday, August 25 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Red Deer Golf & Country Club (4500 Fountain Drive). The doors will open at 1:45 p.m. and there will be a Memorial Ceremony at 2:15 p.m.
To express condolences, memories, and photos, and for the service live stream and recording, please visit womboldfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements Entrusted To Ponoka Funeral Home
~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~