Patrick Germsheid

Patrick Germsheid (Patty/Germy/Meathead) was born on November 28, 1949, in Biggar, Saskatchewan. He was a proud big brother to Tim (Judy) and sisters Micki (Carman) and Rose. Pat was predeceased by his parents, Ray and Martha, infant brother Tommy, sister Micki, and his loyal yellow lab Dutchie. Pat left this world on February 2, 2024, with his loving wife Arlene and daughter Karna at his side.
Pat and Arlene were a finely tuned machine for 52 years and walked side by side in life. They were partners in the businesses they owned, the work they did in their yard, and the many meals and parties that they hosted in their welcoming home. Pat was a character; Arlene adored him, and even though he was always a going concern, he will forever be the yin to her yang.
Pat’s three children Karna (Cliff), Rees (Keri) and Kyle (Brittney) worshiped the ground he walked on. They spent their lives laughing at him and at the same time vying for his approval. The love for his kids multiplied with the addition of grandchildren and out-laws; Karna’s son Maxwell and Cliff’s children Brent (Brooklyn), Sophie, Ryan, and Nate; Rees and Keri’s children Brodi, Ruby and Heidi; and Kyle and Brittney’s children Henry and Pete. He was also fortunate to be an honourary great grandpa to June and Hadlee.
Pat loved living out at the lake and always made it a special place for everyone. When his family and friends were coming out to their cabins he cleared their snow, stoked their fires, and filled their water tanks so they could roll in and start their visit right away. Pat’s willingness to go out of his way to help others was one of his defining characteristics. His love and support was given to all: family, friends, his kid’s friends and their families, and the acquaintances of friends and family. His love for people was boundless and Pat and Arlene’s home was a sanctuary for people and dogs. He was loved and adored by both.
Pat loved the outdoors. He loved to hunt and fish. As much as he loved animals, he was an amazing shot and harvested just as many as he saved. That being said, hunting wasn’t just about harvesting big game for Pat. He loved being in the bush and the stories, laughter, hard work, and camaraderie that comes so naturally and effortlessly when doing so. It was always a special time for him. Whether it was bonding times with his sons or with his brother and his best friends.
Pat was a self-proclaimed dog whisperer, although somehow his dogs were always the least well trained in the neighborhood. There wasn’t a stray dog that Pat didn’t feed or spend his hard-earned dollars on with trips to the vet. His trusted dog Bonnie was his faithful companion these past years. During his and Arlene’s annual winter trips to Guayabitos, Pat volunteered at a local dog rescue where he would spend his day talking to, petting, and walking each dog in the orphanage. He always had a dog treat in his pocket and would attract strays wherever he went.
With no regrets, Pat worked tirelessly. His need to be useful and the work ethic that followed him into his retirement years meant he was always the go-to-guy. No job was too big, (and unfortunately sometimes) no ladder too high.
He always found time to savor life’s simple pleasures. In quiet times you could find him sitting on his deck enjoying the birds and his beautiful yard. When happy hour came he welcomed the never ending flow of visitors that would come to share in the space he and Arlene created. Pat knew he had it made.
Pat loved a good campfire with friends and family; sharing epic stories which were often repeated throughout the years and became more elaborate with every telling. He started hundreds of campfires with every one being a near miss. The man used so much gasoline that OPEC considered making him an honorary member (although he always protested that he had it under control). Forever generous, he would keep the fire stoked to the point that everyone had to shimmy their chairs back to avoid the heat. Chances are he did that on purpose so that the circle was always big enough for more people to join.
Although he had a less than average life span, Pat did not live an average life. His departure has left a devastating hole in the hearts of those who knew him and created an irreplaceable void in the lives of his family and friends. He will be remembered with laughter and love, and the endless stories that surround Pat will keep him alive in the hearts and minds of all those he loved and who loved him so fiercely back.
Please join us in raising a glass to celebrate Pat’s legacy on June 15, 2024
Happy Hour with Pat Germsheid
Event Date: June 15th, 2024
Time: 4pm-6pm
Location: ‘The Venue’, 4th Floor
10101 86 Ave
Ross Creek Professional Centre, Fort Saskatchewan