Patricia Adams (nee Straughan), passed away peacefully at Riverwood Senior Living in Alliston, Ontario on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 100 years, 6 months and 1 day.
For over 60 years, Pat was a professional violinist playing in orchestras for the Canadian Opera Company, The National Ballet of Canada, Toronto Symphony Orchestra; at Massey Hall, Ontario Place Forum, Roy Thomson Hall; TV shows such as the Tommy Hunter Show, Street Legal and a plethora of commercials…. you name it, she probably played for it.
Pat was born in Kerrobert, Saskatchewan, on December 19, 1925. Due to her father’s health, they moved to Victoria, BC. She became a student of Kathleen Parlow among others and by age 7, she was doing recitals. At 17 she was concert mistress for the Victoria Symphony and, still in high school in 1942, she played piano and sang with a small band, touring the military bases entertaining the troops.
After high school, upon attending the British Columbia Institute of Music and Drama, Pat met Ernest Adams, star of CBC radio’s the “Ernest Adams Show’ and two-time winner of “Singing Stars of Tomorrow.” They moved to Toronto, got married and each embarked on successful careers, allowing them to retire in King City on a 5-acre farm. Ernie was an original member of the Canadian Opera Company, tour manager, and administrator. Ernie died on January 23, 2011.
Although Pat’s passion was music, she also enjoyed gardening and growing incredible African violets and geraniums, rescuing dogs, cats and horses and spending time with her grandchildren, Alex (Angelo), Taylor (Lizzie), Casey (Dylan) and Jessie (Nolan).
Pat was loving mother to Tricia (Richard) and Jolie (Dave) and great-grandmother to Oaklee, Avery, Daphne, Rowan and Eleanor. She was funny, stubborn, generous, honest, clever and always spoke her mind.
Jolie and Trish would like to thank Riverwood Senior Living, all the nurses and PSWs, especially Terry and Monica for their excellent care to mom.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Rod Abrams Funeral Home. Cremation has taken place. In accordance with Mom’s wishes, there will be no funeral service or formal celebration of life at this time. For those who wish, donations may be made to OSPCA would be appreciated. Online condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
Elizabeth Cunningham says
Hi Tricia! So very long ago it seems, I used to play in your house, with you and other friends from Bayview Glen, and it was there that I met your mom many times. She was always this very trendy, stylish beautiful woman, who played the violin. Those are memories I easily go to. Your mom reached past 100 years. My mom, Ann Cunningham, is 94 and still doing well. She sold her house on Valloncliffe a few years ago, and lives in Glynnwood Retirement at John and Bayview so we haven’t moved far from the neighbourhood. Thinking of you as you move forward into this next part of your journey. Fondly, Liz Cunningham
Susan Fowler says
Trish and family and Jolie and family, I was so sad to hear of your Mom’s/Auntie Pat’s passing. Our families were so close for so many years and had wonderful times together; so much so, they were chosen as my Godparents. Auntie Pat was one of those “larger than life personalities”; talented, animated, fun, warm and loving and a big laugh I will never forget. Take care all; sending big hugs and lots of love. Susan (Carveth) Fowler
Mary Wybrow says
Oh Tricia and family and Jolie and family. I have known you folks since 1962 when I babysat you as small children. Ernie and Pat were the best! (And so were you two!). I’m so happy that we have stayed in touch all these years and Pat and I were able to visit in Alliston. My heart is full of memories and love for you all. Pat was so full of verve and positivity about life, her children, the arts and the world in general. She welcomed and loved everybody with an open heart and mind. I send my love to all of you and am so happy to say that Pat also got to know my son Kemal who loved her very much too. We will remember Pat with great warmth and love. So in a Pat kind of way I will say we will never forget you and we will see you soon Darling! ❤️
Lily Messina says
To Jolie and Dave and Family and to Alex and Angelo and family and to all the extended families:
It is with great sadness that we express our utmost and heartfelt condolences for your loss.
There are no words we can say that will ease the pain you all our feeling during this difficult time, but please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all and Pat (Nanna).
Although, we had met her once/twice, she has left an imprint with all of us, with her charisma, sense of humor and free spirit she was truly a wonderful woman. After reading her beautiful stories, it only confirms what a remarkable woman she was and what an amazing life she lived. It was truly a privilege to have met her.
May her spirit give you the strength to carry on and to know that she touched so many people, she will always be with you in spirit.
Our deepest and sincere condolences to you all. May she rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Lily, Mike, Michael and Nicholas Messina
Domenic and Roberta De Francesco says
Our deepest condolences to the family. Pat was an exceptional women and a hoot to just sit back and have a drink with. Loved her stories and her wicked sense of humor. She will be greatly missed. Lots of love Domenic, Roberta and Philip De Francesco.
Maria Turco says
Our deepest and sincere condolences to the entire family,we were so happy to have met Pat which we knew and introduced to as granny,she was a wonderful sweet lady and had a beautiful smile,I always enjoyed her phone calls and would smile when I saw her call come in,and she would say hi it’s granny wanted to say hi,she will be missed ,may you rest in peace granny love Maria and Domenic Turco
Joan and Jim Abbotts says
We met Pat when she was looking for a new home and encouraged her that Kingsmere was great. I used to reassess her she was hitting on my husband and her laugh would be infectious. How my grandchildren would say can we go see the chocolate lady again?
Rest in peace Pat and meet your beloved Ernie and play music together again ❤️❤️
Ainslie Wemyss says
Pat was such a sweet heart! She used to call work and refer to herself as Granny. We would often have some nice chats. I will remember her fondly. My condolences to the family.
Gwen Robinson says
Pat was a lovely woman!
I met here at Kingsmere Cres. When she was in her home.
She had so many interest and such a wonderful sense of humour.
She will be missed by all who knew her
Fly high dear Pat and may you and Ernie have a an amazing eternity together