Patrick WALKER Obituary

B.A., L.L.B., MA Lawyer, counsellor, wit, intellectual, poet, friend, advocate, mentor, cyclist, dog-dad, music-lover, and all-round prince of a man, Patrick James Walker died, unexpectedly and too soon, at his home in Vancouver on July 7, 2024. Patrick was born on August 16, 1962, in Kamsack, Saskatchewan, to Abe and Virginia Walker, who predeceased him. He is survived by his sister, Lynn; his brother, Don; his nieces and nephews; his beloved pups, Golda and Bronco; and a legion of friends who will miss him sorely. Patrick was a good man: his keen mind, deep, sensitive, insightful poet's soul, and his genuine kindness fuelled his passion for life, literature, travel, adventure, and people, and sustained his connection to and involvement in the world around him. Patrick built and enjoyed a challenging and rewarding career in law, both in the private sector and at the Federal Department of Justice, where he was a creative, committed, and trusted counsel to clients and colleagues alike, and a generous and respected mentor to junior counsel. He taught law classes at UBC and sat on various Provincial Tribunals; he was a Board Member at AIDS Vancouver, and a founding member of the CBA's LGTBQ+ Practice British Columbia. To support the work of the Callanish Cancer Retreat, he trained for and cycled the Fondo and had intended to do so again this year. He was a committed supporter of causes close to his heart. Patrick was a curious and committed lifelong learner and loved an academic challenge, so it was not surprising that when he left Justice, he transitioned into a new profession. He threw himself into a rigorous course of study at UBC's graduate school and achieved a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology, after which he put his academic training and his life experience to work at the Lawyer's Assistance Program of BC. Patrick faced many challenges in his life. He arduously worked to manage these challenges every day. He was a person who believed in being of service. He endeavored to be there for others facing challenges and he was there in that accepting, empathetic, understanding and insightful way he had about him. Patrick was a vibrant participant in life – connected to his colleagues, a loving, loyal companion to his many dear friends. He will be missed by all whose lives he touched, but his impact will not be forgotten. "Now cracks a noble heart. Goodnight sweet prince, and may flights of angels sing thee to thy rest." (Shakespeare's Hamlet) There will be a gathering of friends, family, and colleagues on September 29, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Van Dusen Gardens in Vancouver, where guests will be invited to share their memories of the warm and wonderful man we loved, and who gave so much of himself to so many of us. If you wish, you may make donations in remembrance of him to any of the causes which Patrick held dear and to which he dedicated his time and many talents.