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Generation: 1
Generation: 2
Generation: 3
| 5. |  Sarah Paterson "Patsy" McLaren was born on 4 Nov 1919 (daughter of Lt. Col. George Hagarty "Georgie" McLaren and Sarah Hamilton Shoenberger); died on 26 Sep 2015. Notes:
A letter by John Heddle to Patsy's sons:
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Time is too short for me to come or to send a physical letter, I fear.
For my most enjoyable summer, ever, in 1956 when I was 16, I was privileged to be the "Wood, Mail, and Ice" boy at Norway Point, a sort of half-time slave to Jane, occasional helper to Aunt Sally, and sometime annoyance to Uncle George. During July of this lovely sojourn, there was a constant buzz about what would happen "when Patsy arrives", which she did in time for the long weekend in August. No mention had been made of the quiet, wonderful, Norman nor of the four - FOUR - loud and active boys and a young girl helper at least in the same tone of voice as to impress deeply.
What a change in atmosphere! Notwithstanding the demands of motherhood before electricity, in three days she had the dingy - the one that I had just spent several days sanding, varnishing, and bailing - in the regatta and won third place, solo. I had yet to hoist its sail. The rest of my life was spent in undying admiration of her energy, spirit, and wisdom. For many years, we visited from Kleinburg in the winter for skiing, tobogganing, tea, and conversations.
A great moment, remembered ever so vividly was when she stood in the aisle, hand raised at first, and stopped the funeral directors from removing the casket at Norman's funeral until "When The Saints Go Marching In" was finished so that Norman would hear all of it.
Luckily, we had talked by telephone in July and her voice was cheery though quavering.
We have all suffered a great loss, you four obviously the most. We will never forget her and always love her memory.
Sincerely,
John
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Generation: 4
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