Patrick
Gilday
1927 – 2021
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Obituary of Patrick Gilday
It is with great sorrow that the family of Patrick Gilday announces his passing on June 3, 2021 at Niagara Health System- Welland Site, in his 95th year.
Born and raised in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, Patrick lived in Port Colborne all his life and will be sadly missed by daughters Anna Ferrara (Mario), Arleen Manners (Glenn), son Alan Gilday, grandchildren Michael Ferrara (Amanda), Stacy Hieuw (Andy), David and Robert Manners, and great-grandchildren Jacob, Andrew, Lauren Ferrara, Tommy and Jordan Manners.
Predeceased by his parents, brothers Joe, John, sisters May, Reegie, Golly and Carmie, Patrick was the last surviving member of his family.
Patrick travelled to Port Colborne with less than $200 in his pocket after he heard there was work at a nickel plant there. He worked at INCO for 34 years until his retirement at 52.
Shortly after his arrival in the lakeside city, he went to a travel agent to purchase bus tickets to go see a girl he had met in Welland. The girl behind the counter told him he’d save money if he bought a book of tickets instead. Knowing a good thing when he saw it, he ditched the Welland girl and decided to ask this girl out on a date. That relationship with our mom Theresa spanned 72 years before she left us in 2012.
Following his retirement from INCO, Patrick began working at Simmons Auto Body, where he spent the next 42 years until retiring a second time just 6 months ago. If you have ever left your vehicle at Simmons for servicing, chances are Patrick gave you a ride home.
In his early life, Patrick played baseball and coached hockey but his love of golf dominated his life. In fact, when a shoulder injury prevented him from playing at the age of 84, his determination led to an attempt to play left-handed instead of right-handed. He also enjoyed playing cards with his family and friends.
Dad has a special way of making anyone feel comfortable in his home and he would often go out of his way to share whatever he had.
His kindness and devotion to his family and friends was exceeded only by his sense of humour. Dad made us laugh all the time.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place with arrangements entrusted to the ARMSTRONG FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL,179 Clarence Street, Port Colborne. There will be a private family interment at Mount St. Joseph Cemetery at a later date
If so desired, memorial donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or the charity of one’s choice.
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Cremation
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place.
Burial of Cremated Remains
There will be a private burial of cremated remains at a later date.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Patrick
Gilday 1927 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Port Colborne, Province: Ontario