On Sunday, April 16, the Reverend Kenneth Vinal, Rector of St. Stephen’s West Vancouver, welcomed Frank Patterson to the morning Eucharist. He is a long-time parishioner who came with many of his friends and family to celebrate his 100th birthday. At the close of the service the congregation moved into the Lounge for lunch and a piece of Frank’s huge birthday cake. Minister of Music, Dr. Annabelle Paetsch, led the group in singing “Happy Birthday” to Frank.
Present to support Frank Patterson were his son, Myron and his wife, Robin from Utah, his grandson, Brett from Charlotte, North Carolina, plus many friends. Both Myron and Brett are accomplished organists and music directors with outstanding careers in sacred music in the United States. Frank's visiting family were delighted that the Reverend Vinal combined the 8 and 10am liturgies so that a good number of parishioners could celebrate with Frank. The Reverend Keith Gilbert was the rector during the years when Frank was a parish officer and also the parish's verger and Frank was delighted to have the Reverend Gilbert present for worship and the festivities. Frank still lives in the house that he built in Lynn Valley many years ago, although now he does have live-in caregivers.
When asked, he acknowledged that he had been born in England, confirmed in England and came to Canada after the Second World War. During the War he served in the Royal Navy on a Torpedo Boat and saw action in the Atlantic, the Mediterranean, and the Red Sea. When asked what his key to longevity was, he replied, ”be yourself and be happy, and don’t complain!”
Article created with files from Hilary Clark
IMAGES
- The Cake
- A sparkler is lit prior to Frank cutting the cake
- Frank, Brett, Myron and Robin
- The Reverend Keith Gilbert chats with St. Stephen's parishioner David Petitpierre
- Fred enjoys a sandwich and a cup of tea
- Brett and the Reverend Gilbert chat over a slice of cake
- Grandson Brett and Frank pose for a photo in 2018
Photos Submitted