Obituary of Maxine "Patricia" Bryden

BRYDEN, Maxine Joan "Patricia" — 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in the VG site, QEII on Thursday, August 27, 2009, after a short but courageous battle with cancer. Born in Halifax, Pat was the daughter of the late Myrtle (Fenton) Barkhouse, and stepfather Cameron S. "Barkie" Barkhouse. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Kenneth W. Bryden. Ken built the family home prior to their marriage and they lived there together until earlier this year when Ken became a resident of Melville Lodge. Ken and Pat enjoyed 51 glorious summers at their cottage in Turtle Cove with their children, grandchildren and many family and friends. The cottage was a great place to relax, have a lively game of cards and on occasion a dance on the deck. Pat was a true lady, a quiet, meek and mild soul who showed her most passion when she had a word or two to say about something she felt was unjust or if someone had been treated unfairly. Pat had a fondness for bowling and for over 25 years bowled on various leagues in Halifax, meeting many people some of whom became friends for life. Besides her husband, Pat is also survived by daughters, Pamela (Brad Swim) Doyle and Nancy (Randy) Barkhouse. Granddaughter Kira Doyle will miss her beloved nanny, and grandaughters Skylar and Amber Barkhouse will dearly miss their "Nanny City". Surviving are Pat's brothers, Donald (Dodie) Sears, Hantsport; Leslie "Bood" (Betty), Halifax; stepbrother, Arnold Barkhouse, Highcrest Springhill; brothers-in-law, George (Mabel) Bryden, Halifax; Allen (Kathleen) Bryden, Halifax; Robert Bryden, Country Harbour; sisters-in-law, Alice Bryden, Halifax; and Marguerite Bryden, Stewiacke. Many nieces and nephews survive Pat who they affectionately referred to as "anny Pat". Pat was predeceased by brothers-in-law, Reginald and Finlay, as well as dear sister-in-law Shirley. Arrangements are under the care and direction of J. Albert Walker Funeral Home (2005) Ltd., 149 Herring Cove Rd., (477-5601). Visitation will take place Sunday, August 30 from 6-9 p.m. Funeral service will be held on Monday, August 31 at 11 a.m. in Emmanuel Anglican Church, 322 Herring Cove Rd. with Rev. Diana Brett-Frye as celebrant. A reception will follow in Emmanuel Anglican Church Hall. A private family interment will be held. Family flowers only. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Emmanuel Anglican Church, Cornwall District Volunteer Fire Department or a charity of choice. The family wishes to thank the staff and nurses of 3A MSICU of the VG site, QEII for their kindness and caring shown to our mother and to us as well. Special thanks and appreciation to nurse Charlene for her gentle compassion in mom's final hours.