Obituary of Patrick RIORDAN

PATRICK MICHAEL RIORDAN Patrick passed away on November 13, 2008 at The Grace Hospice following a courageous battle with cancer. Pat will be lovingly remembered by his brother Albert (Dolores) Riordan, nieces Patsy (John) Liddle, Linda (Tony) Santarsieri, cousin Kay Laurie and their wonderful extended families. Patrick will be sadly missed by his dear in-laws Jill and Cesare Matrundola and their family. Pat was predeceased by his parents Jennie and Albert Riordan, brother George and also by his wife Christina. Pat's memory will also be lovingly cherished by his many special friends who remained by his side until his passing including Terry, Elaine, Sandy, Sheree, Susan, Jim and Glynis. Many thanks to all the friends that supported Pat with their love through this difficult year - the visits, the flowers, the homemade soup, the curry take out, the gefilte fish, the McDonalds milkshakes, the barbeques, the laughter, Vanessa's poem, the funny emails, the quick texts, the hands that held his. Your compassion was a constant source of strength and comfort to Pat. Pat was born and raised in Winnipeg. He attended Isbister School, followed by Hugh John McDonald School, then General Wolfe School. Following graduation from Tec Voc High School Pat pursued a career in the entertainment field. Starting in the late '50's with The Balladeers and capping it off with a thirteen year engagement at the Viscount Gort Hotel, Pat became an icon in the world of entertainment. His wonderful singing voice and comedic timing soon generated a huge demand for his appearances. Be it corporate functions, clubs, or television his unique talent was much sought after and he never let them down. Patrick readily gave his time to many charitable events both on the stage and in an administrative capacity. He was past President (Chief Barker) of Variety Club of Manitoba "The Children's Charity" and in recognition received Variety International's Presidential Citation for work on behalf of disabled and disadvantaged children. He also served on the Board of Directors of Big Brothers of Winnipeg. In addition to these organizations, Pat was Past Commodore of The Royal Manitoba Yacht Club and Past President of The Winnipeg Press Club. Pat loved spending time on his boat the "Jennie May". It was a special gift indeed that he was given one more summer to hang out with his "Gimli Family" and enjoy Dorothy and Amma Thordarson's home cooking, Barry's many kindnesses and the hilarious visits from Bea. Please come and join in a celebration of Pat's life on Thursday November 20 at 2:00 p.m. at the Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street with Thom Shultz officiating. As per Pat's wishes, cremation has already taken place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Pat's memory to The Variety Club of Manitoba. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044