Obituary of Patricia Esler Nikiforuk

August 9, 1933 Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland - November 2, 2018 Strathmore, Alberta

It is with great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our amazing mother and grandmother.  Patricia was born in Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland, the youngest of 10 children. She emigrated to Canada in the 1950’s, a brave move for a single gal in those days. She lived in Toronto, Montreal, Jasper, St. Albert, Edmonton, Calgary, and finally Strathmore. Patricia was predeceased by her husband Walter Nikiforuk in 2001 and all her beloved siblings throughout the years.  She leaves behind her daughters, who were her pride and joy. Lisa (Chris) von Bulow, Stefanie (Rui) Arruda, and Jan Nikiforuk. Her three grandkids held a special place in her heart and she was incredibly proud of them; Kaylie Arruda (16), Evan von Bulow (14), and Emily Arruda (12). They brought her great joy. Patricia is also survived by her dear sister and brother-in-law Hazel and Stewart Palmer of North Battleford, SK. Patricia will be remembered for her great sense of humour, kindness, strength, devotion to family, that sweet accent that everyone loved, and last but not least, her Irish feistiness. The family would like to thank all the caregivers and staff at Sagewood as well as the Doctors and Nurses at Strathmore Hospital for the kind and compassionate care given to Patricia. At Patricia’s request no service will be held. A celebration of life will be held at a later date with family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to Canadian Cancer Society (#200, 325 Manning Rd., SE, Calgary, T2E 2P5), Star’s Air Ambulance (Box 570, 1441 Aviation Park NE, Calgary, T2E 8M7), or another charity of your choice. 

“Her Irish eyes are still smiling”