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Judith Patterson (1953-2017): ‘A passionate supporter of geology’

Concordia remembers a dedicated researcher and teacher
February 1, 2017
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By Elisabeth Faure


Concordia is mourning the loss of longtime geology professor Judith Patterson from the Department of Geography, Planning and Environment.

Patterson died at her home on Friday, January 27, surrounded by loved ones, including her German Shepherd. 

“We are greatly saddened by the news of the passing of our colleague,” says Monica Mulrennan, associate professor and chair.

“Judy was a valued member of our department and a staunch defender of the discipline of geology. It is thanks to her that geology courses are available to our BSc program students.”

Patterson taught the hugely popular course “GEOL 204 - Natural Disasters” and an upper-level seminar in environmental science.

She was also a generous contributor to the Science College.

“Judith was a great teacher,” says Calvin Kalman, principal of the college. “She was liked by all our students and staff, and admired by all our fellows.”

Patterson’s research, which attracted much media attention over the years, focused on the geology of modern environments, particularly the impact of fossil-fuel combustion from the aviation sector on the atmosphere. 

“I am deeply saddened to learn of Judith Patterson’s passing,” says André Roy, dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science.

“Judith was a respected and contributing member of our Faculty and the many students and colleagues who worked with her are mourning the loss of a friend and mentor.”

Mulrennan adds that Patterson "will be remembered as a dedicated teacher and supervisor, a respected researcher and a passionate supporter of the place of geology in university education."

A funeral service will be held in at the James Reid Funeral Home (1900 John Counter Boulevard) in Kingston, Ontario, on Saturday, February 4, at 1:30 p.m. A celebration of Patterson’s life is being planned in Montreal, with a date to be announced shortly.


In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Judith Patterson’s memory to the
Canadian Cancer Society or the Kingston Humane Society.
 



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