Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on the hottest August 31st on record in 1953, he then travelled home for the first time amidst a 25-year hurricane on September 7, 1953 (as recorded by his mother in his baby book). He beat cancer and stayed healthy through the Covid pandemic. Patrick (Pat) Arthur Haliburton was our light, and his passing is a devastating loss for all who loved and knew him. He was a kind man who never passed judgment on anyone and always gave people the benefit of the doubt. "The powers of positive thinking" was a phrase he firmly believed in.
He was the oldest of 6 siblings: son to Donald Andrew Haliburton and Margaret Rose O'Neill. Growing up in Nova Scotia, they enjoyed many days on the family sailboat or on the family island catching lobsters! Pat’s most famous catch was the lobster “about the size of a toddler” as they walked it up the dock and into the pot for the largest feed around! They caught two that night! His love for Charlie Brown started back in grade school when he played the starring role in A Charlie Brown’s Christmas. The show became one of his Christmas favorites.
In September 1973 he met the love of his live, Vicky Bishop. The two fell head over heels and it wasn't long before he asked her father's permission to take her hand in marriage. He loved and honored her until his very last breath. A baby girl was born of their union, and she quickly became the apple of her father’s eyes.
On May 15, 1978, the couple re-located to British Columbia where he continued his work in the insurance industry as a Marine Claims Adjuster and Surveyor at Brauer and Company. During his lengthy career he became a well-respected professional and a trusting, loyal friend to many. He was privileged to work in the Marine Events Department of Expo 86 and went on to work for the Federal Fishing Vessel Insurance Plan until its dissolution in the early 1990’s. From there he joined Hub International and went onto running his own Proprietorship for many years until his sudden passing on March 17th, 2022.
He left us on St. Patrick's Day, guess he finally got the sainthood he so righteously deserved.
His love for the ocean took him and his loving wife all over the world on many trips with loved ones and friends over the years, celebrating all occasions and making many wonderful memories. Although his life was cut short too soon, his life was full, and he was full of life.
When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight.
- Kahlil Gibran
October 8th, 2022
Remembering Pats quick wit and laughter. Had some great times and wonderful dinners with pat Vic and Deenie
Condolences to the family
April
September 11th, 2022
Dear Vicky, Nadine, and family,
I worked for Pat for a short time when he was a Marine Surveyor in Kitsilano in the early 1980's. He was always kind, cheerful, and very knowledgeable about everything to do with boats. I am shocked to learn he is gone and you have my deepest condolences.
Sincerely,
Charlette
August 3rd, 2022
I was shocked to learn of Pat's passing. Vicky please accept our deepest condolences, I have worked with Pat since the early 1990s via Jack McIntyre from Hawker & Shadforth Australia and Sid Pearce. Pat was always a pleasure to deal with as he was always very detailed focused, accommodating and had an excellent degree of Integrity. I thought of him as a colleague and a friend. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Brent Lloyd
May 5th, 2022
"Those we love don't go away
They walk beside us everyday
Unheard but always near
Still loved, still missed and very dear"
We are so incredibly sorry for the loss of Uncle Pat. A wonderful, kind and gentle man, he will forever be in our hearts, thoughts and memories ❤️
Tina, Mark, Georgia & Damien
April 22nd, 2022
I have known Pat for over 37 years and was completely devastated by the news of his passing. Only the night before he had been his usual chipper self during our AGM held via Zoom for the AMSBC (Association of Marine Surveyors of BC). He was a keen supporter of and contributor to the activities of the Association and a greatly respected and valued member.
I am sure those that met him would agree that he was a man of great integrity and someone that could be implicitly relied upon. He will be greatly missed by us all and the local marine community has suffered a great loss.
Our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time are with Vicky and all other family members.
If there is anything that we can do, please do not hesitate to contact us.
April 6th, 2022
My husband Phil and I are devastated at the loss of our friend and fellow Marine Surveyor. Pat was a truly lovely fellow and will be deeply missed. Always ready with a smile, a great hug. the designated driver from many Marine functions, even when it was out of his way, a great wit and always started his stories with "as you know Carole" or "will there be chocolate ?" One of my favourite people. Our condolances to his lovely wife, Vicky, daughter Nadine and family.
April 5th, 2022
Dear Vicky, Nadine, Scott, Jacob,
We are so very sorry for the loss of your Husband, Father and Grandfather. Our hearts and heavy for you. Such a kind, gentle man. Hoping the many great memories will help as each of you walk through this very difficult time.
Sending you love and prayers from across the miles, until we hug each other again.
Joanne, Jocelyn and John Bishop
April 5th, 2022
What a wonderful tribute Deenie. My heart goes out to you all. I still can't believe it - and am so glad I got to see him one last time. The day we all had lunch was so special, such a great catch-up. As you know, I was the flower girl at Pat and Vicky's wedding, plus they used to live next door to us many years ago in Timberlea. I've always felt a deep connection to them. Even though we didn't see each other often, at family gatherings Pat would always make a point to connect, and his kindness and care was obvious. He really did love those around him, and had a way of making you feel special. Every time I came to visit in BC, they always picked me up, no matter where I was staying, and took me out to a great meal. We'll miss him deeply; he was such a calm & beautiful light in this world. Deepest condolences to all the family for your loss, sending thoughts and prayers every day.
All our Love,
Dawn & Bruce, Nick and Ali
April 4th, 2022
So very, very sorry to learn of this sad news.
Vicky, I know your life will never be the same, but the day will eventually come when you will smile,
instead of cry.
My deepest condolences to you and all the family.
Pat Webster.
April 2nd, 2022
Pat was a great friend of ours over the past 20 years. Keith met Pat sailing and they enjoyed many sailing adventures while racing together on several boats. He was a true gentleman and everything one could possibly want in a good friend - steadfast ,honest and full of good humour, wisdom and optimism.
We enjoyed many great dinners, good conversation and happy gatherings with Vicky and Pat and we will miss Pat dearly.
Our deepest sympathy goes out to Vicky and Nadine and the Haliburton family at this sad time.
April 1st, 2022
Deb Taylor.
A Beautiful Tribute to a great man, friend and brother in law. We have so many wonderful memories of trips with Pat and Vicky.
Over the years we have spent several memorable summer weeks on our boat anchored in Georgian Bay. Not to mention the Caribbean Cruises and sun drenched beach holidays. We had so much fun together and we were always ready for a new trip. In 2019 just before the pandemic we shared three wonderful weeks in Europe visiting the Amalfi Coast, Santorini and Rome. Everyone enjoyed the exotic sights and wonderful flavors and we are all so happy we took the trip when we did.
We shared fabulous meals wherever we went. Pat especially loved the desserts and found his hollow leg when they came out. Chocolate was one of his favorites but his eyes always lit up when he heard there was coconut ice cream. On one of our cruise trips the coconut ice cream wasn't on the menu. But after seeing his disappointment our waiter had the coconut ice cream made especially for him the next night. He couldn't believe they did that and couldn't thank them enough. He was one happy fellow, and we all got to share in that delicious treat.
We never had to do any arm twisting to get Pat on board for any of the trips or adventures we conjured up. He loved travel, exploring the destinations, meeting the people and learning their culture . We will sadly miss his very kind heart and funny easy going disposition . He will always be in our hearts and we will never forget him. We hope he enjoys lots of chocolate and coconut ice cream in heaven, till we meet again.
Deb & Jack
March 31st, 2022
Nadine, Shelly and I were like the 3 musketeers, or pig teens as Vicky and Pat would call us (100% accurate). Thick as thieves, we spent a lot of time at Nadine’s house, and I spent many an afternoon or evening wrapped in conversation at the kitchen table with Pat, discussing the variables in our perspectives on life and living. He used to say to Nadine, “I don’t trust her. She’s too perfect. She never does anything wrong.” That spell was broken when Nadine and I were caught drinking airplane bottles of booze in class, on a dare.
We were ordered to tell our parents. While Nadine and Shelly took refuge in the basement, I was given a severe tongue lashing by my mother; dad was less threatening. I wished Nadine luck and when she called me later she said that Pat asked, “Well what did Andrea’s dad say?” “He said don’t do it again.” “Yeah that’s what I was gonna say.” Crisis averted and we never did it again. In class.
Years later I was a married woman age 29, disenchanted with Vancouver and setting off on a cross Canada adventure to find a new home for us. I ran into Pat and Vicky somewhere near the housewares department at The Bay a few days before leaving for good, and it was a most welcome surprise. We hugged and caught up, and I told them of our plans. “Whatever you do, don’t move to Nova Scotia. The black flies are a nightmare,” Pat said. “Oh Pat, it’s not that bad lol,” laughed Vicky. “No no, it IS. Trust me, I’m telling ya. Anywhere but there.”
My husband and I bought a farm in The Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia. And every single time I got eaten alive by the black flies I would chuckle and think to myself, “Pat, you son of a gun. You called it.” And I’d immediately picture his signature ‘told you so/tried to warn ya’ shrug and smirk. To this day I warn people about the NS black flies. But a little piece of me always thinks that I chose Nova Scotia because Pat practically dared me to. And I’m so glad I did, because I will always have shared that experience with them.
I haven’t seen Pat since that day I ran into him and Vicky at a The Bay, but I’ve thought of him often. When he got sick, and I would pray for him to get well. When Vicky overcame her cancer battle last year, and we all heaved a collective sigh of relief. Pat and Vicki are a huge part of my childhood, and Pat taught me so much about how to not take myself so seriously. How to relax and enjoy myself from time to time. To appreciate and nurture lifelong friendships like ours always, because they’re the most solid friends you will ever have. He was right, and I will forever miss knowing that he is around. But I am so privileged to have known him the way I did.
Save a place for me at your table Pat, and know that I am forever grateful to you. Mr. Haliburton. (he hated it when I called him that). xx
March 31st, 2022
There are so many memories, I find it hard to sum them up. I've known Nadine since kindergarden and growing up spent alot of time with the family. Pat and Vicki treated me like a daughter and spent so much time seeing what a loving couple looks like. Pat (Mr. Haliburton), made many jokes about my big feet (they are big) and he called them water walkers. Such a big loss of a wonderful man and I am truly grateful for the memories made with Haliburton family 💜
March 31st, 2022
I met your dad only once , when you guys came to the lake las year . I instantly liked him and had great conversation. I am very glad I was able to meet him. I can only imagine your loss…Mark
March 31st, 2022
I am so sad to learn of Pat’s passing – a life taken too soon. Pat loved to make people laugh; he was easy to be around and would gladly help anyone. Pat has long been known for his quick wit and sense of humor. I loved the years we spent together with Pat and Vicky at the Armdale Yacht Club boating and hanging out on “The Island” in Prospect Bay. You couldn’t ask for a better friend than Pat Haliburton - his loyalty and compassion for family and friends is legendary. My most heart-felt condolences to Vicky, Nadine, Scott, Jacob and the extended Haliburton and Bishop families. God Bless
Sincerely,
Kimberly Burstall
March 30th, 2022
My heartfelt condolences to you Vicki, Nadine, Scott, Jacob and Family. I was heartbroken to hear of the passing of Pat. He was such a kind man always and he will truly be missed.
I wish we had all got to the beach for that picnic one more time 💔.
I hold you all close in my thoughts and will always be here if needed please reach out.
Much love,
Yvonne & family
March 29th, 2022
Pat was truly one of the guy’s I ever met in my life. The first time Anne Marie and I met him was on a Caribbean cruise with Vicky and her family. I knew then as we hit it off immediately, that both Pat and Vicky were not just friends but became family. We will truly miss him.
Safe sailing ⛵️ buddy.
March 28th, 2022
So sorry to hear of the passing of your brother Pat. Sincere condolences to the Haliburton family. Thinking of all of you at this sad time.❤️ Mary Fellows & Family
March 27th, 2022
My dear sweet friend, my heart is broken knowing you have left us so young. I will always treasure our friendship and you calling me CIDER! May you fly free with your loved ones, soar free dear Pat! Love you, 😘💔😢
March 27th, 2022
The suddenness of Pat’s passing has left us all in shock, your family especially so. Somehow it doesn’t seem real. But sadly, it is. He was such a kind and thoughtful person. I would like to relate a story of his kindness. When we were with you in Cuba many years ago, he and I took a walk off the compound to a hill that overlooked the resort area. We came upon a small hut that obviously was someone’s home. Chickens were running around, there were a couple of goats poking their heads out the door, and a small child came running up and offered us a piece of sugar cane. We accepted the sugar cane ; and before I knew what was happening, Pat gave the little child some money. A huge smile came over her face. Her father, who was looking on, was smiling also. I told Pat how generous that was but he just shrugged it off, saying he always carried some spare change for times like this. He certainly was a thoughtful man and will be sorely missed.
March 26th, 2022
It’s difficult to express my deep sadness over Pat’s passing. I lay claim to being his friend, longer than anyone. We were friends before most of the Haliburtons were born! We met before we went to Primary, together, at S T A .
I would crawl through the fence at St Mary’s Boathouse, to play in the woods behind his house. A few years later, we would row out to Pinions lll, and pretend to sail anywhere we wanted! Pat and I went with D.A., to this uninhabited island one day and it it shaped our lives. Too many stories created here to relate and most shouldn’t be , anyway!! Fun on the water was the norm, not the least of which, was with the Tancook Bell in Marblehead with our “other brother “ Spark.
I’m sure he was greeted warmly by Mark upon his arrival . I’ve had a lot of emotions and memories since the news, but mostly I feel lucky to have had such a quality man as my friend for so long.
My deepest condolences to Vicky, Nadeen and all the family.
March 26th, 2022
It was with great sadness that our family learned of Pat's passing. He was a lifelong, great friend of our late brother, Mark MacDonald. We believe they formed their friendship at the St. Thomas Aquinas youth group in the early 1970’s. They created many memories together, especially on Haliburton's Island. They also got to sail along with one of the Marblehead races on the Tancook Bell, as the committee boat for the RNSYS. A huge thrill!
We know that Mark and Pat kept in close contact over the years, despite being separated by distance. All of our family knew Pat as we were growing up and have very fond memories of him; he was a really great guy. We know Mark will be so happy to see him again, sailing in through the Pearly Gates!
We want to pass along our sincerest condolences to Vicky, Nadene, and Pat’s family in Halifax.
Sandy, Mary, Allan, Maureen and Moira MacDonald
March 25th, 2022
Pat was a wonderful friend filled with kindness, adventure and joy. Pat’s unconditional love for his family and friends was truly inspirational. He had a gift to make anyone he talked with feel special. His happy and positive personality was contagious and made him a pleasure to be with. We cherish the memories of our time together and feel honoured to call him a dear friend.
March 25th, 2022
I am so sorry to hear of Pat’s passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. He will be missed…….
March 25th, 2022
To the Haliburton family:
I'm so sorry to hear this news, prayers of love and comfort to you all.
March 25th, 2022
I was sad to read the news of Pat's passing. I had not seen Pat for many years, however I have many memories of our time growing up inHalifax.
Sailing on the Tia Maria as a child was always a highlight, watching Pat climb up the spar for some reason always sticks in my mind. He seemed fearless when it came to being on the water. Thinking of you all at this sad time.
Nancy Smith
March 25th, 2022
Saddened by this news. Condolences to his wife and daughter.
Condolences to all the Haliburton siblings...
March 25th, 2022
I am shocked and saddened to learn of Pat's passing. I always enjoyed time spent with him, as he was so interesting and genuine. Sending heartfelt hugs to Vicky and his daughter, and to brother Bill. I am so sorry.
March 24th, 2022
Beautifully said , he will be missed by us all. Our hearts are breaking for all of you .
Love you, please let us know if there's anything we can do. xoxoxoxox
March 24th, 2022
Such a lovely tribute. I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Pat, I am so grateful I got to spend time with him, such a wonderful, kind person.
He will me be missed.
Sending thoughts and prayers to Vicky, Nadine, Scott, Jacob and the family.
Sincerely,
Sharon
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