Please forgive the duplication; I posted this on Spaw's/Pat Patterson's obit thread:

"The sweetest apple from the highest bough has been picked by a greater hand". Pat, Patrick Patterson (son of Patrick), you were one of the few people who, within the space of one brief paragraph, could be profane, profound, offer comfort, make me laugh & cry, but always left me with the feeling that something special had just taken place. I will treasure your posts & PMs. I will miss your humour & insight. I will miss your love of life which shone through every word you wrote. Above all, I will miss You, Pat, a man I've never met in person, yet feel I know so well. You have enriched my life.
         To Karen, your Family & Friends, I send my heartfelt condolences & love. Despite the ocean that separates us, Ann & I are by your side, each & every day.
                                     With Much Love,
                                                             Nigel & Ann Patterson (two 'Ts' in honour of Pat)
                                                             xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx