In August, Duncan Paterson and his wife Teresa hosted their first ever Natasha Paterson Memorial Car Show, created to honour the loss of their daughter and raise funds to help others in her memory.
Natasha passed away in 2015 following a tragic accident during the parade at the Shelburne Fiddlefest, and her loss was felt throughout the community. In an interview with Motoring last month, Duncan explained that the car show was a way they could give back to the community in a way that represented Natasha.
“Natasha and I used to go out for rides in my classic car—I would take her out for ice cream at Dairy Queen or take her to shows with me,” he explained. “She was a big participant in the fall fair, the fiddle parade, and a Girl Guide. She planted trees in the community, helped out in the old folks’ home; she was always trying to help others. I guess this is my way of keeping that going.”
While the weather seemed like it could cause a problem in the beginning of the day, the clouds and wind couldn’t keep show-goers and vehicle owners away. By noon, there were over 70 vehicles parked around Natasha Paterson Memorial Park, along with an ice cream truck, Fresh Radio, a silent auction, raffle table, and more.
The show acted as a fundraiser for Bethel House and Dufferin Child and Family services, to see money raised for the non-profits to assist with child-related programs. Although word has not been released on how much was raised, in a Facebook post in late August, the family noted that they had raised a fair amount for both organizations.
“Big shout out to all the volunteers who helped with the [show],” the post said. “A very special thank-you to all our sponsors (over 100). Also would like to thank everyone else who brought their cars/trucks to the show for driving your cars on a day that wasn’t so promising… You all made the show a success.”
Show winners are as follows:
Participants Choice
Dale Speleri – 62 Chevy Imapala
Natasha’s Picks
(chosen by Abby Bernier-Hagell, Natasha’s best friend)
Dave Laver – Cobra Replica
Dave White – VW Bug
Top 10 in show
(chosen by Duncan Paterson)
1 Larry Sawchuk – 1939 Ford
2 Dale Speleri – 62 Chevy Impala
3 Greg Marinoff – 1969 Mustang
4 Morris Brooner – 1957 Oldsmobile
(Remainder in no particular order)
Joe Carcarni – 1931 Ford
Jim Bates – 1981 GMC Pickup
Bud Dorrie – 1929
Richard Duechette – 1955 Chevy Richard
Steve & Bonnie Walker – 1955 Chevy
Ray Dougan – 1932 Ford B
50/50 Draw Winner ($400) – Jason Hancock
Written by Tabitha Wells
