Obituary of Patricia Kelso
Peacefully in hospital in Ottawa, with her daughters by her side, Patricia Mary Dorothy passed from this life into the next on Sunday July 26, 2026 at the age of 98. Patricia is predeceased by Burt, her dear husband of 62 years, parents Dorothy and Maurice Harrington, and her brother John (Dorothy). Pat was a loving mother to Jennifer (Ron-deceased 2018), Susan (Rod), Carolyn (Gordon) and Kathleen (Whitt).
Patricia was known for her kindness, grace, intelligence, beauty and talents. She gave her four daughters a life filled with music, poetry and unforgettable family memories.
Born in Weston-super-Mare, England, Patricia moved to Cardiff, Wales after the premature death of her father. In Cardiff her mother operated a boarding house and Pat and her brother John were kept busy helping and completing their school years. On the brink of World War Two, Nana decided to move her young family to Canada, where two of her brothers had emigrated years earlier. They settled in London, Ontario.
Pat attended Western University (Brescia College), earned a BA, and continued post graduate studies in English and Latin. Patricia then moved to Ottawa to work for the Communications Security Establishment. She met Burt Kelso at a dance in 1955 and they were married the following June. The birth of Jennifer made them parents, followed by daughters Susan and Carolyn, and then during their years in Washington, Kathleen arrived in 1966. They returned to 2044 Merivale Road in 1969.
Many happy years followed: memorable family meals and picnics, leaf raking weekends, and summer camping trips. Mum led the St. Monica Church folk group for many years. She returned to university and subsequently taught ESL to new Canadians at Willis College in Ottawa. Pat published her memoirs in 1991 and recently, a book of her poetry and songs. Mum and Dad travelled extensively in their retirement and spent many winters together in Oaxaca, Mexico. Mum's later years were made even more joyful by the birth of grandchildren Katie (Robert), Jonathan, Monika (Brandon), and great grandson Ryker.
Mum enjoyed her many years at Amica Westboro Park, followed by her last two years at Prince of Wales Manor in Barrhaven. Special thanks to the staff at both residences for ensuring her participation in so many happy activities. The family also wishes to acknowledge the kindness and excellent care shown to us from the nurses and doctors at the Queensway Carleton Hospital, where Mum was kept comfortable during the last week of her life.
A celebration of life will be held at the Pinecrest Remembrance Chapel at 2500 Baseline Road, Ottawa on Saturday August 1st at 1 pm, followed by a reception.
In lieu of flowers you may wish to consider a donation to the Dementia Society of Ottawa, CNIB, or a charity of your choice
