Patricia 'Pat' Ruth Thornton

Patricia (Pat)Ruth Thornton (nee Ham) passed away peacefully surrounded by family December 29, 2025.  Reunited with her loving husband Charles Richard Thornton (1933-1980), daughters Deborah McFee (David) and Jamie Thornton.  Survived by daughter Sandra Desautel (Brad) and sons Charles Thornton and Anthony Thornton (Karlee). Beloved grandmother to 17 and many great-grandchildren.

Pat was born in Calgary in 1930 and her family moved shortly afterwards to Brandon where she spent her formative years.  Pat began her working career as a telephone exchange operator and it was during this time she met her future husband Charles, a soldier from nearby CFB Shilo. They married in 1951 and began their family shortly afterwards as well as making a move to CFB Winnipeg.  With the family complete, they made the move to Ontario in 1968 when Charles was posted to CFB Carp near Ottawa.  It is here that Pat put down roots in nearby Almonte and is where she called home.

Pat was an enthusiastic volunteer in the community devoting her time to the Almonte General Hospital, The Hub, and was very active in the Royal Canadian Legions’s Women’s Auxiliary.  

Pat moved to Peterborough in 2009 to be closer to her daughter and her family.  She will be remembered for her passionate devotion to Bingo, and her skills at playing cards with family and friends. One of the best cribbage players to have ever pegged!

Pat had an enduring adventurous spirit that took her to places such as the UK, Ireland, Las Vegas and the Middle East. This adventurous spirit led to activities such as snowmobiling, and even jet skiing at age 94.

Pat loved to spend time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom she adored.

At her request there will be no service as a celebration of life was held prior to her passing.

Donations welcome in her memory to the PRHC Foundation or Hospice Peterborough.