Obituary of Patricia Appavoo

Patricia Jean Appavoo (née McNeill)

June 4, 1937 – August 13, 2021

Patricia will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Clare Appavoo, (David Willson), brother Ian McNeill, brother-in-law Martin (Sushila), sisters-in-law Nylene, Lily, Jeevi and Maggie, and many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

Born in Peace River, Alberta, Patricia grew up alongside her five brothers in various United Church parishes in Saskatchewan at which her father was Minister. After pursuing a BA and BLS at the University of Alberta, Patricia’s spirit of adventure led her to India to work as a librarian at the United Theological College in Bangalore, where she met and married her husband Muthiah David Appavoo and gave birth to Clare.  On their return to Canada, while working as a librarian at Victoria College, she continued her academic pursuits earning her MA and PhD in Political Science at the U of T.  Her leadership skills were honed as University Librarian at Athabasca University and then as founding University Librarian at UNBC. On retirement, her desire to travel and commitment to service took her to Madagascar for two years, where she once again volunteered as a librarian at an Anglican Theological College. Returning to Vancouver, she continued to participate actively in the Anglican Church, made new friends, and enjoyed many travels before Alzheimer’s disease slowed her down. 

Vibrant, intelligent and calmly competent, Patricia generously shared her joyous laugh and wisdom with family, friends and colleagues. A funeral service will be held in September.  Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.

© 2021 Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles – Newbigging Chapel Limited. All Rights Reserved.