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Patti McNeill

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PATRICIA DOROTHY MCNEILL

(Née GILLIES)

November 3, 1972 – June 7, 2026

If I should disappear from your life

Don’t mourn for me, don’t grieve.

Please know that while I am at peace

I never chose to leave.


Each of you shaped my life

But all in different ways,

So many opportunities

So many things to say.


So don’t be sad, but smile instead,

At all the fun we had.

No tears to shed, No wearing black, 

No hint of being sad.


We’ll meet again, I know we will,

Remember me for all goodwill.


Patti grew up in the Westwood area of St. James attending Lincoln school and Westwood Collegiate. Being the youngest of three girls had its challenges, so I am told! But Patti always told me she lived and loved her youth doing typical childhood activities with both family and friends, of course, there were not so fun moments! Patti told me about the carpet incident at the townhouse on Westwood Drive which we laughed about several times. 


With Father Robert and Mother Darlene and Patti’s two sisters, Patti recanted several times how her father worked as a carpenter working out of town and every weekend in the summer. Mom would load the girls and Dog Gilligan into “the Boat”, as Patti would call it, to go camping to see their Father. Also, Patti had many fond memories at Clearlake at the grandparent’s cottage. Now we know where Patti got her love of Camping!


Unfortunately, Patti lost her father at a young age, leaving Mom Darlene a single mom of three girls. Things we not easy, but Patti and her sisters persevered with Mom’s steady guidance.


The sun would shine on the Gillies family when Mom met and eventually married Mark Morgan. For Patti, this was the stability she wanted for her and her family. It was a blended family at first, but Mark loved and cherished the girls. Patti shared a special bond with Mark. Mark gave her the love of classical rock music, particularly Kiss and Queen. Both Patti and Mark shared a love of practical jokes and gags, something myself and our children still laugh about today.


CHEERLEADING!! If there was a stereotypical picture of a cheerleader, Patti was it! Beautiful Blonde hair, infectious smile, cute button nose and charming green eyes, Patti was it! While honing her cheer skills at Lincoln and Westwood schools, Patti lived and breathed cheerleading going on to Cheer for the Winnipeg Thunder Basketball team and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the Early 90’s. Patti then went on to coach cheer at Westwood Collegiate, guiding them to several Provincial titles. Wanting to excel the sport to higher standards and recognition, Patti joined MAC (Manitoba Association of Cheerleading) first as secretary, then from VP 95-98 and then President from 98-2017 with good friends, Jenn DeGroot and Lindsay Sprague. Patti went on to be a board member for Cheer Canada as well as an ambassador to the ICU in the United States, Making several good friends and memories along the way. It gave Patti Solace that she was able to train, coach and inspire hundreds of young woman and young men to excel and embrace the sport of cheerleading.


Professionally, after graduating from U of M, Patti started her career at the St. James School Division as an Educational Assistant working with special needs children. Patti went on the try her skills at a Weight Loss Clinic and as a Liquor Rep, however, Patti’s true calling was in the administrative field. Patti was a master of organization, problem solving, and a people’s person. There was nothing she could not solve or find a solution!


Patti went on to work for the U of M from 2005 -2013 as an Administrative Assistant. Her true calling came as an Executive Assistant, working for some prestigious companies such as Manitoba Hemp Foods, The Boniface Hospital Foundation, and The City of Winnipeg’s Mayors Office, to name a few. Patti was well respected and received many Accolades over her Roles in the Executive world.


Wanting to scale back from her Executive assistant role, Patti recently accepted a position back at U of M at St. Paul’s College as Senior Administrative Assistant in 2024.


Patti and I loved to camp and we had many starry nights spent on the ground at Riding Mountain in Clearlake MB. With the arrival of children, we wanted to get off the ground and bought a tent trailer or two, spending many trips to various campgrounds in Manitoba and the US. The last 15 years or so, Patti and I and kids have had a seasonal site at the Whitemouth / Nayon campground. A special place for Patti making many memories and good friends. Patti always told me a soon as we drove down to the camp her stress level would disappear and calm would return.


We also loved to travel, having introduced Patti to it prior to Marriage. We spent many good times as couple and then as a family going practically every year to Mexico, a place Patti loved and embraced the people and culture, making many good friends and Memories along the way! Special shout out to Bill and Kim for all the fun!


Anyone who knew Patti knows her love of cooking!! We were very blessed and fortunate as a family to have many homes cooked meals made from scratch each day! Thankfully the kids inherited her love of cooking and continue on as young adults. The running joke was, “Patti you’re cooking for 4 Not 40!” but friends, neighbours, even strangers benefitted.


Family was of utmost importance to Patti, she loved our children through the good times and bad with love, guidance and non-judgmental support, tirelessly putting their needs before hers, advocating for their needs and supporting their endeavours. I know they will make her proud as she instilled honest values and good life skills in them.


It’s impossible to sum up Patti’s life in her 53 short years. Patti will always be remembered for her tireless giving, empathic ways and love of her family, friends and community.


There is a huge void to fill in our lives now. My Friend, Wife, Lover and Mother will never be forgotten.


Patti was predeceased by her father Robert; mother Darlene; step father Mark Morgan. 


Always treasured and sadly missed by Colin (husband); Daughter Ellowyn; Son Mannix; Four legged Kids, Blue and Poncho. Sister Bobbi (Don) and Sister Jodi (Dave); Niece Katelyn; Nephews, Kevin and Sean. Patti loved and will be sorely missed by her “outlaw” sisters, Eliane Lakeman and Cathy McNeill.


Our family would like to thank family Dr. JP Raubenheimer, Chiropractor Dr. Lisa Krenz and family Pharmacist Christine at Brathwaite’s for Patti’s Care and compassion over the years.


The Easiest part was the Hellos,

The hardest part was the Goodbye.


I love you Patti,


Colin


As per Patti’s wishes, cremation has taken place, her ashes will be scattered according to those.


A private interment for family and friends will occur at a later date.



ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Paula

July 16, 2026 at 9:48 AM

In this world it is very rare to find someone who gives you a chance, when no one else will. Patti hired me and showed me kindness, patience and respect. Although she was only my supervisor for a brief time, she was a ray of sunshine for me. She was wonderfully out-spoken and had a heart of gold. Patti, please know that you will stay in my heart for always and if there is a heaven, the angels will certainly welcome you. My sincere condolences to your family, who I am sure are missing you so, so very much. xoxo

 

Nadine Robinson (Arklie)

July 8, 2026 at 10:59 AM

My heart is heavy, and it is difficult to put into words the sadness I feel knowing you are no longer with us. I found myself taking the time to write this because you deserve to be remembered and because your life touched so many people.

 

My heart is especially broken for your family as they navigate this unimaginable loss. I hope they find comfort in the beautiful memories, the laughter, and the love you shared together, and in knowing how deeply you were loved by so many.

 

We were friends from kindergarten through high school/university — from playing together in the backyard to discovering our shared love and joy of cheerleading. I am so grateful for the friendship, kindness, and happiness you brought into my life and the lives of those around you. I will forever cherish the memories we created and carry them with me.

 

Though saying goodbye is heartbreaking, I feel incredibly fortunate to have known you and to have shared so many special moments together.

 

Rest peacefully, my friend. You will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and never forgotten. ❤️

Laura Deen

July 6, 2026 at 9:06 AM

My deepest condolences to the family. I worked with Patti at the University of Manitoba. I came to work this morning to see a heartbreaking sign of her untimely passing. I am speechless. Patti is and will always be full of life, postivity and the ray of light. I love her sense of humor and devotion. She will be deeply missed. I am so grateful our paths crossed! May you Rest in Power and Peace!

Jim Walker

July 3, 2026 at 10:20 PM

It's hard to belive I'm seeing this. It's been almost 17 years since we were neighbours and just saw Colin briefly in March. Patti truly was a bubbly Doll, great cook and Mom. Best memory was going by limo to see Elton John's concert. Thank you for being part of my journey. Condolences to Colin, Ellowyn and Mannix.

Jenn DeGroot

July 2, 2026 at 10:10 PM

Oh Patti...just like competition...this was way too early my girl. I just can't believe you're gone. I miss you so much...how ridiculously bubbly you could be at 6am, your eternal optimism and your big heart. You made people love you everywhere you went! To your family...I am so very sorry for your loss. It breaks my heart that the three of you have to move on without her but I know she's in a better place, pain-free and looking down on us all. My deepest condolences...she will be missed but never forgotten. 💕

Mel MacPhee

June 30, 2026 at 3:37 PM

My heart broke when I heard that Patti died. We had lost touch over the last two years, and always meant to get together and catch up, and I so wish we had. Patti was one of a kind. Hilarious, super fun, a real person who was just herself, no BS. And she would give you the shirt off her back (there is a good joke in there that Patti would have a good laugh at). She was a good friend for many years, a rock-solid support. She just made you smile, you couldn’t help but love Patti. She brought life, positive energy, and very good vibes everywhere she went. She was a dedicated mom and loved Mannix and Ellowyn fiercely. She was also a committed wife and family was number one. Colin, my heart goes to you. I will miss her and will always cherish our friendship. Rest in peace Patti- and… I’ll always be in your circle…

Madyson Duchominsky

June 29, 2026 at 9:57 PM

I remember when I first met Patti out at the trailer, I could tell right from the start how sweet and kind she was🫶🏻Everytime I saw her, she would share her wisdom among not only myself, but to other friends and family. There was never a dull moment with Patti. She was someone you could always talk to and I appreciated that so much.

Patti always spoke so so so highly of Ellowyn and Mannix, she always wanted the best for them. She was so proud and made that known everytime I saw her!! She was definitely full of love.

She will be deeply missed by so many people.

Just know she cared so deeply about all of you.

Lots of love Ellowyn, Mannix and Collin❤️ We are all here for you.

Ronnie and Remy Villamayor

June 29, 2026 at 9:48 PM

What a wonderful person gone very early. Our family will always remember her kindness and everything about her! Rest in peace our lovely friend! God bless you Collin and your two kids!

Susan Nott

June 28, 2026 at 11:51 AM

Im so so sorry Colin,Ellowyn and Mannix. Patti was a amazing lady. My thoughts are with you.

Monica DeGagne

June 27, 2026 at 7:06 PM

Deepest Condolences Colin, and kids

Patti was always at my side when needing help at the club.

Her gentle nature and smile will always be remembered 💕

RIP Patti

Richard Frechette

June 27, 2026 at 6:44 PM

My sincere condolences to you and your family Colin🙏

Richard Goodman

June 27, 2026 at 5:34 PM

Gone too soon, but she is pain free and cheering on some lucky team in heaven. I have fond memories of our car pooling days going to university, she always made the drive enjoyable. Rest in peace and know that your beautiful soul touched many people.

Jane Couch

June 27, 2026 at 12:47 PM

Patti and I went to school together from K-12. I have such fond memories of our times together. She always made me laugh and made everyone feel special. I am so very sorry for your and your family's loss.

ashley duchominsky

June 27, 2026 at 1:14 AM

i have so many fond memories of patti that i will cherish forever, and i will always be grateful for the love, kindness and support she showed me throughout the last 10+ years of knowing her.

 

Patti gave me advice that has stayed with me over the years, shared stories that still make me smile and offered comfort during moments when i needed it the most.

she had a way of making people feel seen, valued and genuinely cared for, no matter who they were or what they were going through. that kind of kindness is rare, and is something i will never forget.

 

she touched the lives of so many people and left a lasting impact on those lucky enough to know her, myself included.

i will forever cherish the memories i have of her and the lessons she taught me. she will be missed so deeply and her warmth, generosity and the love she gave so freely will never be forgotten💕

 

Colin, Ellowyn and Mannix

i am so sorry for your loss, you guys are in my thoughts💕

 

 

Dr. Lisa Kresz, chiropractor and friend

June 27, 2026 at 12:13 AM

Dear Colin, Ellowyn and Mannix,

I am so sad for your loss. I loved Patti and will miss sharing stories with her about raising kids and the rollercoaster ride that is life. She was always gracious and concerned, even when she should have only worried about herself. She was always making me laugh, even when times were difficult. Not long ago she asked me...."It's a bad idea to get a 150 pound dog now.....right Dr. Lisa???" I honestly didn't know if she was joking, because Patti would take in a dog that needed a home, even if she didn't have the strength for a big dog. Patti was a wonderful, kind person and I will miss her deeply.

Elaine Lakeman

June 26, 2026 at 7:59 PM

I was so expecting and hoping to see you again along with Colin and the kids I was so shocked to hear of your passing sweet Patti but I believe I will see again, I will bring a bottle of chilled Pino Grisio, we can cook up a storm and laugh and sing! All my love to you dear Patti 🌴❤️🌸. I will make every effort to meet up with Colin and your beautiful grown up children soon

Your Sister Out-Law Elaine

Margot

June 26, 2026 at 6:24 PM

Sending my deepest condolences. What a beautiful tribute for a beautiful person. Unfortunatley it had been decades since I last saw Patti. I thought of her often.

Margot Bergevin ( nee Wright)

Jenna

June 26, 2026 at 3:31 PM

Heartbreaking to hear this news. we are so sorry for your loss.

Although we didn't know Patti for long, she was a lovely, genuine person! Ava would often ask last summer to go see Patti at her camp site, which Patti would always have a treat for her and show her the garter snakes in the wood pile!

It wont be the same without her this summer.

May you find comfort in all the memories you've made over the years.

 

Jenna, Chris & Ava

Kevin McDougald

June 26, 2026 at 12:02 PM

It was a great pleasure working with Patti at St. Paul's. She had that sunny nature and incredible sense of humour that made her the ideal "first point of contact" for many people visiting the College. (I still chuckle thinking about the little dance she did in my office doorway to announce the arrival of a toner cartridge for my printer.)

 

At the same time, you could totally see the "mom" side of her that wasn't afraid to keep order and make sure things got done. It's often the case that the boss might be "the boss", but it's the office administrator that hold the operation together, and so it was with Patti.

 

Patti was awesome. My condolences to Colin and the family.

Pam Currie

June 24, 2026 at 11:00 PM

So, so sad to hear of Patti's passing. She was part of our Rods football family when Mannix and my son were just little guys. She was our team trainer and treated every boy on the team like her own. Her huge heart, gift of gab and positive vibes made each of our Cruncher seasons full of fun and laughter. My condolences go out to her family.

Kim Vigilance Byrne

June 23, 2026 at 11:25 PM

During your journey on your final flight home.

White wings will carry you and you will be flown.

To the pearly gates of heaven, where they will usher you in .

To the feet of our Lord, your Savior and friend .

He will hold you in his arms and the angels will sing .

As another of his children is delivered by white wings.

Patti I will miss your beautiful face and all the love and hugs that we had for 36 years of friendship. As my Grandma would say "Did you bring that Patti girl to give me a squeeze" ❤️

Shelby Henderson

June 23, 2026 at 2:10 PM

She coached the westwood Cheer team and was an unforgetable coach mentor and will be soo so missed the the manitoba cheerleading community xxoo

Frida - former colleague

June 22, 2026 at 12:57 PM

Patti was my colleague at RRCP for only a brief time, but she left a lasting impression on my heart. I will always cherish her thoughtful appreciation of our interactions at work, few and brief though they were.

She was one of those rare people whose warmth, kindness, and sincerity could touch your heart and make a profound impact. I have kept the sweet email that my former director forwarded to me, in which Patti expressed such gracious appreciation for our brief encounters. It remains a treasured reminder of the kind of person she was.

Rest well, dear Patti. Fly free on your wings.

Laurie and Randy Guyot

June 21, 2026 at 10:42 PM

Colin, Ellowy, Mannix, and family, our heartfelt condolences to all of you. Patti never shied away from sharing how much she loved her family and always expressed how proud she was of you. May her love surround you throughout your lives and bring you comfort during these difficult days.

Jeannette Amos

June 20, 2026 at 6:17 PM

you were not only my friend, you were my Neighbor and I miss seeing you spraying the dogs with water when they bark, waving at you when we were both coming or going in our busy lives, I miss your morning texts and most of all I miss hearing your voice ... you are in a better place now where there is no pain.. Rest easy my friend .. love you & miss you so much!! 💔

 

Ann Ingalls

June 20, 2026 at 9:36 AM

Oh Colin. I am soooooo sorry.

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