Patricia Diane Laing (nee Demaray)
September 8, 1931- August 30, 2022
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Pat at the Welland County General Hospital in her 91st year. Greatly beloved wife and best friend of Bob for 63 years. Devoted, loving mother of Marilyn (Jim) and Scott. Adored by her 3 grandchildren, Dawson, Shannon and Brendan (Kayla) and 2 great grandchildren Joseph and Jedidiah. Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Much loved by her sister Margot Magee of Vancouver B.C. Predeceased by her parents Lawrence and Marie Demaray.
After graduating Western University in London, Pat began teaching at Whitby High School. She returned to London to take a job as an instructor at her alma mater and became involved in coaching the University’s basketball and volleyball teams. It was also in London where she met and married her to-be lifelong companion, Bob Laing. Soon after starting a family and moving with Bob to Fonthill in 1963, she became involved in refereeing high school and college/university volleyball and basketball. Her refereeing, administration and mentoring contributions to these sports in legendary, as demonstrated by the many awards bestowed upon her locally, provincially, nationally and internationally. She was inducted into the Ontario Basketball Hall of Fame during the half time break at a Toronto Raptors game in 2016.
Pat was a philanthropist and donated generously to many charities over the years. She loved playing the piano, downhill skiing, reading, and watching old movies. She spent countless hours watching tv sports and Olympic events, but she also travelled and saw the world with Bob, meeting new friends on each adventure. She encouraged both Marilyn and Scott to pursue music, University educations, professional careers and their own athletic interests. She also took a great interest in her grandchildren’s lives and accomplishments, and was very proud to be a great grandmother to two wonderful boys.
We wish to thank the many PSW’s and nurses Colleen, Jocelyne and Trina who helped Pat get through her last 15 months a bit easier. Many thanks to Dr. Dooler, Qamar and Raimando for their expertise and compassion. We are also very grateful to Liz Dalton, Pats sister-in-law for her continuing presence and support.
A celebration of Pat’s life will begin at Fonthill United Church at 11:00 am on Thursday, September 15, 2022. There will be a private interment for family followed by a reception for all at the Fonthill Legion Hall 12:30 pm. (141 Hwy 20 East, Fonthill).
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to the Fonthill United Church or the Canadian Red Cross.
Online condolences can be shared at www.pelhamfuneralhome.ca
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Patricia Diane Laing Demaray Tuesday August 30th 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Fonthill, Province: Ontario