A Life Lived, A Life Remembered: Born January 16th, 1938, in Hamilton, Ontario, to parents Tom and Edith Miles, and brother Bill (Sandy). Trish lived a full, happy and adventurous life. She was married for 66 years to Jack Sinclair, who was a friend throughout high school, but eventually became her sweetheart when they needed to find him a date for the head table at the prom. They had three boys together, Andy (Julie), Scott (Amanda) and Mark (Rita). In time, they became Gran and Gramps to Sean (Amanda) and Sarah (Tim), and most recently GIGI to Colin, Jude and Ava. Family was always at the centre of mom’s life, but she was also so much more.
A talented seamstress, she designed wedding gowns and formal wear for family and friends, as well as making clothing for all of us growing up. She will always be remembered for dressing Andy and Scott in velour home made suits with ascots during the 1970’s. She also leaves behind a legacy of literally 100’s of costumes which she made for Amanda’s school shows over the years.
Music, dance and theatre were her passions throughout her life. From her early years where she had to hide her dance lessons from her parents who thought dancing was “wicked”, she performed in community theatre, taught music to an entire elementary school, directed shows, performed in the role of Mary Magdalene and was part of the National Arts Centre Opera Company. Music credits included pioneering music therapy in the locked forensic ward of the Royal Ottawa Psychiatric hospital and bringing a music program to Alzheimer patients in Shelburne. She and Mark also enjoyed many nights together at the opera where they shared a unique bond due to their mutual love of music.
Trish had an amazing way with people, you only had to walk down the streets of Oakville to see how easily she could talk to anyone…and everyone she passed. Growing up we all experienced her wonderful love and openness as did our friends who loved to sit and chat with her for hours. She and dad hosted the annual “Farm Picnic” each year, which was about our friends coming to their country home for a full day party…they loved to be part of our lives.
Always ready for a new adventure, Mom and Andy opened their In-house “Grandy” Construction Company, ready to do home repairs and renovations for the price of a glass of wine…or two. Mom and Scott enjoyed their winter getaways in her later years, going north to where they could find the snow, a fireplace to read by and some good food and wine.
Mom was fortunate to have three Daughters-in-law, who were both daughters and friends to her. We all took many family cruises together while dad was still alive and celebrated their love of family.
Sean and Sarah were the centre of her universe as they grew up, and when each married wonderful partners, and then brought her great grandchildren, the circle of her life was complete.
A special thanks to Mike, her companion and partner for the last 9 years, who helped her to find love and laughter again after dad’s passing. They had many wonderful adventures together, particularly in Yellowknife.
To quote Mom’s memoir: ”Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, champagne in one hand, strawberries in the other, exhausted, body totally worn out, and screaming Yah-Hoo – What a ride.” Mom passed on her own terms surrounded by those she loved and who loved her.
A private family gathering will take place. Memories can be left on the Kopriva Taylor Community Funeral Home memory board.
