In Celebration of

Patricia Anne (Pat) Rae (née Alexander)

November 12, 1942 -  January 30, 2024

Pat was born in Glasgow on November 12,1942. She studied Biochemistry at Glasgow University, being one of the first three women to graduate in the field and receiving her degree in 1963. She then went on to do research at Aberdeen University, where she received her PhD in 1966.

In 1967 Pat and her husband Robin (who pre deceased her November 13, 1997) moved to Canada where she worked in research in the Banting Institute in Toronto.

In 1982 she changed careers and studied law at the University of Toronto and was called to the bar in 1984. For most of her working life she was an expert in patent law and a Partner at Sim & McBurney in Toronto, Ontario. With her biochemistry background she specialized mainly in patents for a variety of drugs. Pat was highly respected in her field.

Pat was known for her keen intelligence, wonderful storytelling abilities, humour, kindness a prolific debater and a proud no-nonsense Scot. Her creative spirit was expressed through gardening, cooking, studies of the Italian language, her photography of nature and travels. Her love of music was apparent by her travels to see Operas, attending the Canadian Opera Company performances and her support of the Royal Conservatory of music.

Pat was involved in her community through volunteering for various organizations.

Pat died unexpectedly on January 30th, 2024, and will be missed immeasurably by her family and friends.
Pat is survived by; Margaret Giles (Larry), Iain McFadzen, her nieces and nephews Lyn, Kae, Jan and Kevin McFadzen and Liam, Aidan, Isla, Niamh and Keelin. Ishbel Roddick (John)and her children, Helen and Iain. Georgie and Hugh Ramsay, Aileen Hadfield (Tim), Helen Ramsay, and grandchildren Gavin and Isla.

In keeping with Pat's wishes family and friends will be invited to "Pat's Party" to raise a glass in friendship, date TBD.

If desired, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

Guestbook 

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Maria Creedon (Friend)

Entered February 1, 2024 from Sydney Australia

I met Pat when she travelled to Sydney Australia as I introduced to her by her dear friend and neighbour Anne. We shared a meal together eating pizza and drinking wine, talking and having fun.

Rest in eternal peace Pat, I will be raising my glass and eating garlic pizza in your honour. 💜

Janice Kreviazuk (Parents were friends)

Entered February 2, 2024 from Ottawa

This morning I am not sure what made me think of Pat as the last time we spoke was when I called her in 2015 to tell her my Mum had died. I googled her and was saddened to see she had just died. Pat and Robin were wonderful friends to my parents Joe and Janet Blair in Sarnia. I remember both of them so fondly growing up. They were at my wedding in 1981. They visited us many times through the years and I can recall visiting them also for Caribana in Toronto. Robin was the “project manager” for an addition on our house one summer. Wonderful memories.

Graeme and Cynthia Blair (Friend through Joe and Janet Blair)

Entered February 2, 2024 from Sarnia

Very sad news. I have many fond memories of Pat and Robin during their many visits to Sarnia to see my parents. Condolences to you all.

John FItzmaurice (Friend)

Entered February 3, 2024 from Toronto

I met Pat when she was volunteering at the UIW clinic at the U of T law school in 1979. She was whip-smart and feisty and witty and lots of fun to be around. She shared these qualities with her husband and boon companion, Robin, and it was wonderful to be with them. Robin’s premature death was a huge tragedy for Pat but she soldiered on with her characteristic cheer. She had a huge social conscience and was fighting hard to save Ontario Place when I saw her last year. She was an extremely accomplished and talented woman and I extend my sincerest condolences to her family. I also look keenly forward to Pat’s Party: her sparkling eyes and impish smile deserve a bonny, rousing farewell.

Stephen Perry (Friend)

Entered February 4, 2024 from Toronto

My heartfelt condolences to Pat's family.

I have many happy memories of Burns' dinners at Pat and Robin's , where my rudimentary bagpipe skills were tolerated by guests and, presumably, neighbors.

More happy memories of Pat spending a several New Year's celebrations at our house overflowing with young children and dogs.

Elizabeth and I will miss her very much.

Photos 

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