March 31st, 2021

It is with heartfelt sadness; we announce the passing of Paddy. He passed peacefully into spirit at the Royal Inland Hospital with his family at his side. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend. He will forever be carried in the hearts of his loving wife of 46 years, Mary, his son Vance (Kim), his daughter Storrm (Sean), and his six grandchildren, Danielle, Mya, Mackenzie, Alia, Elizabeth, and Jaxson, as well as many nieces, nephews, and good friends.  He is also survived by his sisters Janet (Alf), Kathy (Cliff) and his brother Devery.

Paddy was predeceased by his parents, Vic and Myrtle Loring, his brother Cliffy and sisters-in-law Marlene and Sandra and his first family – wife Barbara, children Ricky and Shelly.

Paddy was born and raised in Lytton. It was there that he developed his love of fastball and hunting. The most precious things and passions in his life were his family and sports. He was very proud of his children and grandchildren. You could hear his loud voice on the soccer pitch or on the bleachers cheering on his grandchildren. His was the loudest and proudest voice! He was proud of their triumphs and deeply shared in all aspects of their lives. He was an avid Chicago Black Hawks fan, evidence by his loud coaching comments and cheering during games. Each year he cheered for the American Jr. Mens Hockey Team and he was ecstatic when they beat Canada for the Gold Medal earlier this year.

His love for gatherings began early in Kamloops where their home was always full with family and friends enjoying good food, games, and celebrations. Paddy believed in community and was always striking up conversations with neighbors and those he met along the way. Paddy loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, especially with his son. He also enjoyed gardening with Mary, and they generously shared their bounty with family and friends.

Paddy enjoyed a 40 year career as a Meat Cutter with Safeway. He started work in Penticton in 1964, and after stints in Vernon, Kelowna, Prince Rupert, and Prince George he moved to Kamloops where he cut meat at the downtown Safeway from 1973 to closing and he spent the latter part of his career at the North Shore Safeway until he retired in 2004.

Paddy’s love of sports brought him much enjoyment and after his playing days, he volunteered for years at the annual Kamloops International Bantam Hockey Tournament, Kamloops International Baseball Tournament, numerous bonspiels, umpired Men’s Fastball, and coached Minor Baseball. He loved coaching and helping kids grow their passion for sports.

Paddy was an incredible human being! He was loud, proud, and loving towards those he cherished. He loved family traditions including birthdays and holiday celebrations. He was a great sport and loved to dress up for his birthday on Saint Patrick’s Day! His smile and loud voice would ensure the room was lively and fun filled. Family meant everything to him and it showed each and every day.

We would like to thank the many people who took special care of Paddy during his long illness, especially Dr. Finch of the Kelowna Cancer Clinic, Dr. Gabriel of the Royal Inland Hospital Cancer Clinic, and his family doctor, Dr. Swarts. In lieu of flowers, please live and love as Paddy did, by affirming your love to one another each and every day. Those who wish to make donations in Paddy’s memory may do so to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions a celebration of Paddy’s life will be held in the future in the family’s backyard when we can all gather together again.

You may express condolences by visiting Alternatives Funeral & Cremation.

• Date : 2021-03-31
• Location : Kamloops