Colin Patterson, a renowned figure in the Cranbrook hockey community, was recently honoured by the Cranbrook Bucks for his lifetime dedication to the sport. The tribute took place during the Friday evening match against the Salmon Arm Silverbacks, where Patterson had the privilege of commencing the game with a ceremonial puck drop.
Patterson’s impressive career as a player, coach, and volunteer has made a lasting impact on the local hockey community and has resonated internationally. In acknowledgement of his enduring legacy, a commemorative display honouring his accomplishments now adorns the concourse at Western Financial Place, celebrating his profound influence on the game.
His involvement in the world of hockey began at a young age, as Patterson first stepped onto the ice at the age of two. He developed his skills in local hockey rinks in Kimberley and Cranbrook before venturing beyond the region to pursue college hockey in Nelson, Michigan, and Calgary.
Following a successful playing career, Patterson transitioned to coaching and assumed leadership roles with local teams such as the Cranbrook Colts, the Cranbrook Royals, and later, the Kootenay Ice. Notably, his coaching experience extended to international arenas with stints in England and the Netherlands.
In addition to his contributions to hockey, Patterson also found time to build a family, marrying his wife, Janet, and raising three sons—Brad, Shane, and Jeff—while also pursuing a career as a math teacher in the Cranbrook school system.
Patterson’s accolades as both a player and a coach are extensive. His collegiate career was marked by championship victories, including a scoring championship and MVP honours with Notre Dame University of Nelson in 1963, as well as an NCAA championship with Michigan Tech Huskies in 1964-65. Furthermore, his coaching endeavours yielded numerous triumphs, including leading the Alpine Hockey School in Kimberley and coaching various junior and provincial teams to victory.
One of Patterson’s most enduring legacies is his development of the CAHA Level 4 Initiation Program, which has had a lasting influence on the sport globally. His exemplary involvement in Cranbrook minor hockey, coupled with his international coaching ventures, further underscore his profound impact on the hockey community.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Patterson was rightfully inducted into the BC Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013, alongside esteemed individuals such as Mark Recchi, Paul Karyia, Marc Crawford, and exemplary teams like the Kamloops Blazers dynasty.
Patterson’s unwavering dedication to hockey, his remarkable achievements, and his lasting impact on the sport not only exemplify his legendary status within the Cranbrook community but also serve as an enduring testament to his unparalleled commitment to the game.