Fun Fact: The earliest known cheesecake was made by the Greeks on the island of Samos, where simple ingredients like flour, wheat, honey, and cheese were used to create a rudimentary version of the dessert. In fact, cheesecake was served to athletes during the first Olympic Games in 776 B.C. as an energy-boosting snack!

The Story of Pretty Patti

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.  

History of Anniversary/Birthday Celebrations

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!

Memorial at Galiano Island