Corporal Nigel Ross Paterson M.O.M., R.C.M.P. (Ret'd)
June 14, 1955 – July 7, 2024
It is with ineffable sadness that we announce the passing of Nigel Ross Paterson. He passed away on July 7, 2024, in Nanaimo, B.C. surrounded by the beauty of the mountains and the sea. He will be missed beyond words and loved forever by his wife of 46 years, Cheryl, and his daughter Christina.
Nigel was sworn in as a regular member of the RCMP on April 1, 1977, and retired from the RCMP on April 3, 2002, after a career of 25 years with a total of 16 years of his service in Banff. No member in the Force, since the Northwest Mounted Police established the first detachment in 1886, had ever come close to matching this record of service to the community.
One of Nigel’s greatest achievements was being appointed as a member of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces (M.O.M.) on February 27, 2002. This order was created by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2000 to honour careers of Police Officers of exceptional distinction.
Nigel led a life that was devoted to his family, community and helping others. He belonged to many local organizations including Bow Valley Victim Services, Rotary Club of Banff, Banff Canmore Foundation, Cascade Lodge No. 5, Banff Shrine Club, Royal Canadian Legion Colonel Moore Branch #26, and the Calgary RCMP Veterans Association.
Nigel was intelligent, articulate, patient, kind, caring, generous and always had a smile on his face. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and share his knowledge. Nigel had an immense love for his family and friends, and he will be deeply missed by so many.
We will hold on to the memories of the beautiful life we had. We will never forget the unconditional love you had for us. We will spend the rest of our lives missing you and loving you. We will forever honour your life and legacy and your service to Canada. We will find strength and comfort in the days ahead by remembering all the good you did in this world. The values you instilled in us, will influence our decisions in life now and always.
A service will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at St. George’s in the Pines Anglican Church at 1pm. Reception to follow at the Banff Legion.
For the full obituary, please visit https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/calgary-ab/nigel-paterson-11971362
