Patricia Bowman

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday September 8th, 2010. Patricia was a loving wife to Jack and devoted mother to John. Patricia was a sister to predeceased brother Joseph Gannon, and lovingly remembered by her brother Frank Gannon, sisters Sheila Beesley, Helen Keyes and Rita McDonald. Patricia was a wonderful aunt to many nieces and nephews and will be dearly missed.

Patricia could light up a room instantly. Forever dear in our hearts. At an early age Patricia was exposed to people in her neighbourhood from different countries which led her to pursue a career in teaching. She joined other ESL pioneers at COSTI (Italian Technical School Organization Centre) in 1964 whose motto was “Integration through Education” when it came under the Ministry of Citizenship and was associated with George Brown College. She was a coordinator of operations for many years and was a dedicated professional for over 36 years. She had won many awards and honours from the community including the Board of Governors Award of Excellence in 1991 for outstanding community service.

She lived life to the fullest and worked hard for all of the students she taught and mentored throughout her teaching career. She will be missed and fondly remembered by so many friends, colleagues and loved ones.

Friends will be received at the Ward Funeral Home, 2035 Weston Road (North of Lawrence Ave. W.) Weston on Tuesday September 14th 2010 from 7-9 pm and Wednesday September 15th 2010 from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John The Evangelist Church (49 George Street, Toronto, ON) on Thursday September 16th at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Alzheimer’s Society or Hospital for Sick Children Foundation would be appreciated.