Shona Esther Paterson

For the Lord your God is living among you. 

He is a mighty Saviour.

He will take delight in you with gladness.

With His love, He will calm all your fears.

He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.

Zephaniah 3:17

          Shona Esther Paterson passed quietly at home surrounded by family and caregivers in her 47th year.  Her strength of character, tenacity and love for life shone through even as she encountered significant health challenges in her final years.

          Shona’s presence brought life and joy to our family.  She is deeply missed by her parents Margaret and Gordon Paterson, her siblings and their families: Jonathan, Donnabeth, Myrna Joy, Joel, Jennifer, Philip, Peter, and her biggest cheerleader and companion Patricia.  She was a proud Auntie to 23 nieces and nephews and 13 grand nieces and nephews.  We are grateful for the early care and love of her first family,  The Marten’s, who cared for Shona from infancy into her second year.  She came to us as a toddler and quickly became a loved member of the extended Paterson family.

          Shona attended school in Ingersoll, graduating from IDCI.  Soon after she began working at Secord Trails, supporting the Recreation program and helping in the laundry department.  Shona had a busy social calendar.  She attended Friendship Club, played on the Ingersoll Blue Strikers Bowling team, and competed in the Special Olympics.  She was a regular volunteer, ringing the bell at the annual Salvation Army Christmas kettles and helping in children's programs at her church.  A strong woman in body and spirit, she did not shy away from a challenge, often taking on the firewood pile with a wheelbarrow and a smile.  A keen sports fan, Shona rarely missed a Leafs game; her joy could not be contained when her team scored. Wheel of Fortune, American Idol, Heartland, and Matilda were all favourite shows.  In her leisure time, Shona loved to play UNO, solve word search puzzles, or colour. Shona took keyboard lessons and happily played her piano for an audience.  Trips to Rawdon, Camp Shalom, and campground visits with friends were highlights of Shona's summers.

          Shona was known for her trademark giggles of delight and mischief.  A serious face quickly turned into a sparkle, a side eye and a smirk.  Though at first shy when meeting a new friend, she was suddenly the best of friends with everyone.  She loved a hug and couldn’t resist sneaking a quick smooch on the cheek.  She had a caring heart and was very sensitive to the grief and loss of the people in her life.  Shona's favourite day of the year was anyone's birthday.  Her birthday was celebrated every year on July 17th and was talked about many months in advance.  Shona had a sweet tooth, and communicated her love for ice cream even after she lost her speaking voice.

          In recent years, Shona was cared for at home by her family and an attentive and compassionate team of caregivers, community supports and physicians.  The VON Adult Day Program became a regular outing for Shona each week with the help of volunteer drivers.  We are grateful for the contributions of all who supported her care.

          A Celebration of Life for Shona will be announced at a future date.  Memorial contributions may be made in Shona’s name to:  Friendship Ministries Canada (Since the 1980’s, Friendship Ministries has been a recognized leader in developing resources that equip and support faith formation for people with disabilities), or Mennonite Central Committee (MCC brings humanitarian relief, community development and peacemaking where it's needed most- at home and around the globe).  Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to Gordon and Margaret Paterson, P.O. Box 3, Ingersoll, Ontario  N5C 3K1

For you created my inmost being; 

you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; 

your works are wonderful,

I know that full well.

Psalm 139:13,14

Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Ave., Woodstock, Ontario was entrusted with Final Arrangements. Your messages of remembrance and condolence may be shared here at www.wareingcremation.ca