Pat’s Story: A Lifetime at Seba Beach and a Deep Love for Seba Seniors
For Pat, Seba Beach isn’t just a place she visits — it’s been part of her life since she was nine years old. Her parents had a cabin here, back when this building was still the Salvation Army camp. Those early summers shaped her connection to Seba in a way that never left.
Growing Up at Seba Beach
Pat remembers the 1950s clearly. Her mom would pack up four kids, all the linens, and everything they needed for the whole summer. The cabin had electricity but no water, so Pat and her siblings hauled a wagon up Cull Hill to get water so their mom could wash clothes. It was simple living, but full of memories.
She also remembers when the Salvation Army kids came to the lake — a familiar part of summer life back then. And she still treasures the local history captured in Margaret Lemieux’s books.
Building a Home and Staying Connected
When Pat and her husband Terry retired, they knew they wanted to spend winters away. After buying a place in Arizona, they sold their Edmonton home and built a bigger cabin at Seba. Their original cabin was so basic that it took six hours to scrape frost off the walls. The new place became their year‑round home — and this winter is their very first staying here full‑time.
Joining Seba Seniors
Pat’s mom was a member of Seba Seniors, so when Pat started coming to the centre, she noticed her mom’s name on the plaque. About 10–15 years ago, she joined herself — thanks to Lynn B., who mentioned the Seniors needed help.
Back then, the Melmoth Lounge was overflowing with donations. Bags and boxes were everywhere. Pat didn’t want to sort clothes, so she took over the books in the thrift shop. As a former Teacher Librarian, she was the perfect person for the job. The amount of donated books was incredible, and Lorne kept bringing more.
She remembers Dot, who loved the thrift shop and was there constantly. Dot’s dedication helped shape the shop into what it is today.
Teaching, Learning, and Helping the Centre Grow
Pat taught Bridge for a couple of years, with classes reaching up to 20 people. Some were Seba Seniors members, but many came from surrounding areas. At the time, there was a real push to build more activities, and Bridge became one of the early successes. She even taught some of her bridge students how to play online, and they’re still doing it today.
She also tried the book club but admits she felt guilty if she didn’t finish the book. Over the last five years, she’s seen a big increase in activities — more programs, more energy, more ways for people to get involved.
When it came to celebrate Seba Senior’s 40th anniversary, Pat helped design the front yard at the Seba Seniors Centre with Annette Ayre; and then maintained it for three years!
Finding Friendship and Community
When asked about the highlight of her time at Seba Seniors, Pat doesn’t hesitate: it’s the people. The friendships she’s made. The sense of belonging that has grown over time.
She loves the dances — especially country music and old‑time rock and roll — and she and Terry are always there when the music starts. She’d love to see more intergenerational events, like a “bring your kids‑who‑are‑seniors” Sundowner.
She encourages people to join because there’s so much happening, and many folks in the area are looking for volunteer opportunities. Seba Seniors gives them a place to contribute and connect.
