July 7, 1949 – May 30, 2025
It is with deep sadness and love that we announce the passing of Carol Sawchyn (nee Pateman).
Carol lived a life defined by resilience and generosity. A devoted mother, she raised her sons, Trevor and Andy, with unwavering love, pride, and support. She welcomed their wives, Lorrie and Angela, as her daughters, and found immeasurable joy in her grandchildren—Lilliana & Ashton and Isabella & Andrew.
Carol is now reunited with her dear sister, Lorraine Hnatchuk, and their beloved parents, Lawrence and Eva (nee McCaig) Pateman. She leaves behind her four brothers - George, Tom, Larry, and Bill - who she loved fiercely and drove crazy in the way only a sister could. Carol’s sisters-in-law, Patricia, Jacquey, Bunny, Jayne, and the late Kathy all adored Carol, as did her late brother-in-law, John.
Her nieces and nephews loved being around their Aunt Carol.
Carol was the keeper of the family history, remembering and recording the stories, names, dates, and memories that shaped the Pateman and McCaig family legacy. With both Eva and Lawrence hailing from Cockburn Island, the Island remained a special place to Carol. Cousins were bountiful and the fun shared among them the base of countless stories. Carol loved being surrounded by her cousins and aunts and uncles.
A master quilter and talented painter, Carol had a gift for turning fabric ends and saw blades into art. Though each quilt was easily worth thousands of dollars, she believed her gifts were meant to be shared, not sold. Her generosity will continue to wrap her loved ones in warmth long after she has gone.
Music was in Carol’s blood. She loved being surrounded by the musical talents of her uncles, cousins, brothers, and nephews, often joining them on guitar and vocals.
Carol Sawchyn will be remembered for her wit and creativity. Her absence leaves a space no one else can fill, but her presence will live on in every quilt, every painting, and every story.
All are invited to join in a celebration of Carol’s life on Thursday June 5, 2025, from 6:30-9:30 at the Moose Lodge in Sault Ste. Marie (543 Trunk Rd).
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).