Patrick Garry Rutten, known to all as Pat, was born on December 31, 1945, in Lethbridge, Alberta and passed away on November 9, 2023, in Vernon, B.C.
From a young age, Pat had a passion for cars, and appreciated all things Western. He honed his skills and work ethic at Black’s Men’s Wear in Lethbridge, where he learned the ropes and found success.
Pat’s journey eventually led him to Edmonton, where he hung up his hat in Men’s Wear and began his journey in real estate and franchising. He wasn’t one to shy away from a challenge, and his grit and determination carried him all the way to Seattle, where he left his mark and made folks stand up and take notice.
But, in true cowboy ways, Pat knew when to stop following different trails. He returned to his family roots in Vernon, British Columbia and to the scenic landscapes he loved; Pat embraced retirement with the same gusto he’d shown throughout his life.
Pat’s ride into the sunset might bring a tear to the eye, but his memory will forever be etched in our hearts and minds. His adventurous spirit, love for the nostalgia of the west, and dedication to his work and family will be remembered as a testament to the cowboy way.
Pat is survived by his brother, Robert, and son, Cam.
So, here’s to you, Pat. May you rest in peace, knowing your legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to call you a friend or family. Happy trails, Pat.
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Wayne Pierce
So sad to hear today about Pat’s passing, we met years ago through Real Estate but we became close again through our Facebook friendship. He was an outstanding man, and a true gentleman. I will miss our chats online. He always had a kind word when he reached out. A very Sad day for me as I am in the South Pacific and just got news today! RIP old friend.
Harry Shardlow
Pat was a mentor to a young man (me) working at Blacks…..a friend
Lynette Duncan
Sending much love and healing to family. Continue on your journey, Pat , knowing that you are well loved and will be greatly missed.❤️
Phillip Gold
Rip Pat
You lived the life
Played your cards
Job well done
Condolences to the family
Phillip Gold
Edmonton Alberta
Gene Horii
I am still very sad to hear of Patman’s passing. Through our conversations via Facebook and our taking friendly jabs at each other was when I started to call him Patman and he didn’t mind that at all. I can’t remember for sure how we became friends but I think it was through his brother Robert. Rob and I went to school together at Central Elementary way back in the early 50″s and I believe that is how Patman and I became friends. Facebook brought us together as I asked Pat way back if he was related to Robert and he said he was his older brother, thus the friendship. I will truly miss our friendship and am so lucky to have known Patman the last few years. RIP my friend, you were one of a kind.
Heather Chapman
I am shocked at reading this, as I just talked to Pat before I headed to Edmonton for a quick holiday. I rented his basement suite for a brief time in summer 2018 and we had stayed friends ever since. My condolences to Cam and his family and to his brother
Andrew and Nicole Hibbs
Hi Cam,
So sorry to hear if your loss. Our Thoughts are with you and the family at this time.
Nancy Berlando
My sincere condolences to Cam, Robert and your families. May the many happy and endearing memories you have of Pat sustain and comfort you at this very sad and difficult time! Rest in Peace Pat .. until we meet again! ❤️
Roxanne Hunter
I am truly saddened to hear of Pat’s passing. We grew up in the ‘hood together on 7A St. in Lethbridge and re-connected through Facebook, sharing many memories and lots of laughs. Pat brought so much heart to our conversations. I will miss him dearly and the re-connection and conversations we shared. We had a wonderful reunion a couple of years ago when we visited the Okanogan and he graciously extended the hospitality of his lovely home. Sincere and most heartfelt condolences to you, Cam, and to Rob and your families. Hugs and prayers to you all. May your memories of Pat comfort you all and make you smile. Happy Trails, Pat, ’til we meet again.
Ken and Sharon Price
May fond memories help you, Cam, Rob and families. We had a lot of good times with Pat in Lethbridge. May he rest in peace..❤️
Barbara Willoughby Cavers
So sorry to hear of Pat’s passing. His mother, Vivian,
worked with my dad in the Marquis Pharmacy on Lethbridge, and Pat and I had just reconnected in the last year or so. We did a little reminiscing and I enjoyed his “good morning” on Facebook.
David J McCartney
My condolences to Pat’s family and friends. I only knew Pat for a few years before his passing but have fond memories of our friendship .
Pat Greyell
Dear Cam and Rob, I’m so sad at the loss of Pat, and extend my most sincere condolences. Pat was a remarkable person, and the memories of our time together since we were 16 will forever hold a special place in my heart. During this challenging period, may you find solace in the love and warmth that Pat brought to the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. His kindness, laughter, and the positive impact he had on others will be a lasting legacy.
Wishing you strength, courage, and the comfort of cherished memories. And yes, Happy Trails to you Pat. RIP
Penny Jones
Sincere condolences on this most intimate family loss, Cam, Barrett, and Rob. I knew Vivian from my AGT days, and Gordon and my dad curled together in Lethbridge. Such a small world yet we never managed to meet in person. We did become good facebook friends through the You Grew Up in Lethbridge . . . group and I will miss our daily good morning and good night messages as well as a great deal of kindness, good natured teasing and wit, over an enduring friendship of almost ten years. Recognize that your greatest strengths and brilliance are a gift from Pat. He’ll never be far from you but rather, always within you. Peace and love as you move forward.
LaVerne Krizan
My deepest condolences to you, Cam, and to your family. I’ve known your dad for most of my life as he worked with my father, Paul Rusznak, at Black’s. I recently reconnected with him through Facebook and he and my dad had a FB video chat a few months before my dad passed away. Your dad was always so kind, caring and big-hearted. I am so sorry to hear of his passing and know that this will leave a whole in your heart. Maybe he, my dad and Reno are all having a good chat right now.
Gail Lizzi
Deepest sympathy Cam to you and your family from the Lizzi family. Your dad reached out several years ago to a few of our family members who are on Messenger. We were so pleased to hear from him. We all have fond memories of Pat from Black’s, he was always friendly and gracious. He recently shared that his time working at Black’s were some of the best years of his life, Dad would be so proud and happy to hear that. They both enjoyed baseball so am sure they will have lots to talk about!
We will miss his daily coffee posts that came with good thoughts for the day that had encouraging messages for all of us to enjoy and reflect. May your happy memories give you leave and comfort during this difficult time.
Joyce, Curt, Gail, Diane, Mark and Brenda
Susan dillabough
My thoughts are with you Rob, Cam and families. Pat was a special man. We had many good times after he moved back to Vernon. He also was there for me through a hard time. You are up there just watching over everyone that was part of your life. Bye cousin. Love you.