The Story Behind Pretty Patti’s Cheesecakes

The Inspiration & Heartfelt Passion

Baking was more than a hobby for our mother—it was a source of joy. As a young boy, some of my fondest memories are of being in the kitchen with her, creating Christmas treats and birthday cakes. Mom had a special way of making us feel involved, always sharing spoonful samples that made me more eager to help!

Our beloved mother, Patricia Grace Ducharme, was affectionately known as “Pretty Patti” for her genuine smile, bubbly personality, and kindness that she extended to everyone she met. Sadly, Patti died, but through this Cheesecake Story, we managed to transform a sad story into a beautiful celebration of community, positivity, and sharing her cheesecakes with you!

The Origin of Pretty Patti’s Cheesecakes

Tragically, Patti’s life was cut short at the age of 40 when she was murdered by her boyfriend, a former hero police officer in Vancouver, on March 25, 1996. The news reached us on my sister Nicoline’s 19th birthday, turning what should have been a joyous annual occasion into a bittersweet memory for our family.

On March 25th, 2021, the 25th anniversary of our mother’s death, Nicoline and I jointly decided that we would include Mom in our celebration.  It has been inspiring and fun to celebrate with others!  Each year, we strive to do something unique and special.  

Annual Events (25th anniversary to the 29th anniversary)

In March 2021, a dear friend, Brenda Morrison from Simon Fraser University, hosted an online memorial Zoom conference call with over 80 people who participated, some were just learning who our mother was for the first time! We sang, laughed, cried, and shared music, poetry, and memories of who Pretty Patti was to each of us. It was therapeutic and fun!

In March 2022, we celebrated by sharing something Patti loved; her favorite cheesecake recipe! One of my regular clients and friends suggested the idea of celebrating friendship over cheesecake, so Enrico Winery hosted a Cheesecake Party at the Vineyard with live music and over 100 friends.

In March 2023, Nicoline and I took a road trip together on her birthday to say our final farewells to our grandmother before her passing. Though we did not do a public event this year, I have produced a photography album of last year’s cheesecake party.

In March 2024, I returned to Galiano Mountain on Galiano Island with my friend, Zoe, where 20 family members gathered in 2008 to spread our mother’s ashes. We filmed a series of scenery and interviews that are part of a short documentary capturing this important milestone. For those who have never been to Galiano or may not be able to make the climb, the video is coming soon!

In March 2025, all five of my father’s children (me and my two brothers and two sisters) are reuniting in the Okanagan for a family gathering. In June, last year, my father was diagnosed with bladder cancer that has quickly spread through his body. So, during our father’s chemotherapy treatments, it is timely that our siblings and I coincidentally decided to meet on the traditional anniversary. This year has a different meaning. Not knowing how much longer we may have with him, we will remember and show our appreciation and love, celebrate with a Dairy Queen Blizzard Cake for Nicoline, and take some special photos for this page for our parents to see what and who they have created and introduced to this world. I have considered this the final year of the anniversary journey, so we’ll see!