Obituary of Roderick (Rod) Hugh Paterson
June 28, 1956 – September 3, 2024
Rod passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family in Ottawa on September 3rd 2024, following six hard fought years with lymphoma - a testament to Rod’s character and strength. Rod will be remembered and continue to be loved by his beloved wife Sharon (his best friend and partner for 45 years), his daughters Jen and Tracey, his son in law Tom, and all who had the privilege to know him. He was a dear son to the late James MacArthur Paterson and Dorothy Paterson (Sutherland), and the youngest (and most mischievous) brother to John, Dave, and Rick. Brother-in-law to Glenda, Sue and the late Diane Paterson. He is also celebrated and loved by numerous nieces and nephews: Sarah, Suzy, Katie, Patty, Jaclyn, and James, their spouses and children; and the late Brad Paterson. Rod lived a big, full life filled with laughter and love. He had a special way of endearing himself to anyone who was lucky enough to meet him. Rod loved traveling, snowmobiling, and a fine single malt scotch. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with family and his many friends whom he loved very much (especially when he got to host them on his boat in Calabogie with great music). He was a dog lover and got to love many dogs over the course of his life. He had a keen eye for business, loved helping others and was always quick to offer advice, a well timed joke, or the world’s best hug.
A memorial service for Rod will be held at Orleans United Church in Ottawa (Orleans) on October 7th at 3:30pm, followed by a Celebration of Life at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum at 5:30pm. We welcome all who knew Rod to join us to remember him and celebrate his life.
A very special thank you to the incredible team at the Ottawa Hospital General Campus for the wonderful care given to Rod over the past six years. In lieu of flowers, donations to The Little Angels Blood Cancer Fund dedicated in memory of Rod are gratefully accepted.
Please note that there are multiple road contruction closures around Orleans United Church that are signifigantly impacting traffic in the area - it is suggested that guests gives themselves extra time to commute in and around the Church and use Google Maps to work around closures.