Patrick H. Spence-Thomas
Start date: MARCH FORTH! 1933
Patrick, sound engineer and human being extraordinaire died Sunday, October 12, 2008, surrounded by the very love he generated throughout his life. That spirit is now a deep and glorious part of his best friend and wife Mary (Mosbaugh), son Richard (Catherine Copeland), daughter Emma (Raymond Archer) and his wonderful, like-spirited sister, Elizabeth Boles. His grandson Barrett Spence-Thomas and his granddaughter Holly Archer knew his heart and sense of mischievous fun, as did all children and adults alike who could laugh and climb out of the box in the name of adventure and curiosity. His effect on the Mosbaugh family and theirs on him was a magnificent union of souls and spirits. Audrey Spence-Thomas and Patrick's family in England are also treasuring his memory.
There are many people to thank, amongst them numerous doctors but most particularly Dr. Todd Walters and Dr. Samir Grover who always went beyond the expected. Also, the dedicated nurses and caregivers at St. Michael's Hospital (who have the patience and hearts of angels!) are truly unsung heroes.
There will not be a funeral. His wishes were to have a "damn good party" so there will be a joyous celebration of his life in the near future. For more information, go to http://web.me.com/stap_bookings/Celebration
Portmeirion and Ottawa
October 20, 2008So sorry we didn't see Patrick after he left Ottawa. As Ann Bierrum, I met Patrick in 1940 at Portmeirion, and several times later in the war. As a newly-wed in Ottawa, we met up again. At an Ottawa Symphony benefit one night, we were mystified to notice a spotlight following us during the spot dance. So we won 6 lessons from Arthur Murray studios! Next day Patrick phoned Henry. He had been manning the spotlight and we were the only people on the floor he recognized! Typical! Regards to Biddy if she remembers me. Ann Bierrum Wright
Henry and Ann WrightA Sad Day
October 20, 2008Patrick was one of the finest people I've ever worked with and he inspired me at the beginning of my career in the film business.
We met in Tadousak 35 years ago on a film called Journey. I started as a PA and ended up his boom man. Patrick taught me how to be a professional.
He came to our wedding and later our 25th anniversary party.
A true original, he will be sorely missed.
We share your sadness.
Jonathan Hackett and Carol Lavoie
Condolences
October 21, 2008So sorry Audrey, Richard and Emma
He was a fun creative man - Our thoughts are with you at this time. We have very good memories of the time we were neighbours on Balmoral.
Ray and Mary
My Condolences
October 21, 2008Hi Richard & Emma;
I am sorry to hear of the loss of your father.
Hearing your names brings back fond memories of childhood on Balmoral - fun in the cemetary, back lanes and living rooms.
Keep positive and give each other a hug for me,
Maura McQueen
Condolences!
October 22, 2008It is hard to believe that ever-enthsiastic energetic chap is GONE!
Dashing from one end of the studio to the other in the the innards for 45 (I think) Charles Street East while recording the voices of the greats of CTV!
May he rest in peace!
Peter Rehak
Pat!
October 23, 2008Pat and I teamed up and came to Toronto together in the 60's and worked on Newsmagazine together- I remember his shock when I phoned him at 12pm and said "Come on mate we're off to Rhodesia in a hours time"- we went everywhere together in those early days! Vietnam/Africa/Norway/Sweden and loads of exotic places before we both went our separate ways- The best soundman I ever worked with and certainly the most fun to travel with- I have a million stories about Pat- all of them lovely and he and I shared a love of wine and good food when we had time between filming- I was shocked to hear he'd died- condolences to all his family but there is a spot in my heart that is always there for a wonderful man, Bob Dutru
Bob Dutru
Deeply Sorry
October 25, 2008Meeting Patrick in the '70s was one of the things that made working on film shoots fun. Knowing him and Mary in more recent years as neighbours has been an honour.
George PyronRichard and Emma
November 02, 2008My entire family was stunned and saddened to hear the news of your loss. Our memories go so far back, 40 years and more! I know my father, Len Marquis, has his own stories and special memories of his many adventures with Patrick. As for myself, I will always cherish my own recollections of our family visits to Balmoral, of saucy Christmas puddings, playing in the streets during the "End of the World" and your father's elfish charm and gentleness.
A hug to you both
Lise Marquis
My mentor
March 18, 2009I am deeply sorry I did not hear of Patrick's passing until now. To him I am eternally grateful for mentoring me in the art of sound recording. He set the standards of professionalism which I never forgot. Through working with him at his studio to collaborating on films such as Rainbow Boys I enjoyed a successful career in the film industry. His terrific sense of humour and irrepressible optimism were a joy to be around. My condolences to his family.
Billy Nobels
Sincere Sympathy
October 18, 2008Dear Richard,
Doreen and Herb LockeWe were so sorry to learn of your Dad's death in this morning's Globe & Mail. Our thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time.
Sincerely, Doreen and Herb Locke (Blair's Mom & Dad)