Obituary of Patricia (Pat) Reitsma

Patricia (Pat) Reitsma

(nee Shideler)

Peacefully, and surrounded in love, Patricia (Pat) Reitsma (nee Shideler) of Arnprior, ON passed away on Thursday October 23, 2025 at the Ottawa Civic Hospital.

Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, the first child of the late George and late Ruth (Jones) Shideler. Pat grew up living on many Navy bases across the USA. As the family grew, she was overjoyed with her role as big sister and to finally have companions on her many travels. It was after completing University that Pat decided to head out on her own and start another adventure. She made the long trip from California to Canada to fulfill her dream of teaching. She began, and spent most of her career, teaching at Arnprior District High School. Those years at ADHS filled her with immense pride and joy. The move to Canada was the beginning of her long, wonderful life that she shared with her husband, her children and her beloved grandchildren.

Whether you met her through school, the library, community events or around town, Pat was happiest when sharing her love of English and History. A teacher never truly retires, they just change their classroom. Never shy to start a conversation, she had the gift to gab, but her truest self was always in the quieter moments with family and close friends.

Pat left us with many memories of a life well lived. A life full of love, strength, devotion and happiness.

She is now reunited with the love of her life, late Bert Reitsma.

Pat is survived by her children, Tricia Skorupinski (William) and Greg (Cynthia). Much loved Uma to Johnny, Brandon and Ella and Nanny to Ryan, Dylan, Charlotte and Colson. She will be missed by her brother John Shideler (Suzanne Geoffrion), sisters Betty Shideler and Janet Shideler (Ray),  brothers-in-law Eddie Reitsma (late Marion), Dick Reitsma (late Isabelle) and Anton Reitsma (Faye), sister-in-law Connie Reitsma (late Gerrit) and her many treasured nieces and nephews. Lovingly remembered by her best friend, Lorna Blackburn.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Boyce Funeral Home Ltd., 138 Daniel Street N., Arnprior. A private family interment will be held at a later date.

Pat's family have requested that any donations in memoriam be made to the Arnprior Public Library (Click Here) or the Arnprior and District Humane Society (Click Here).

"Parting is such sweet sorrow, that I shall say goodnight till it be morrow" - William Shakespeare