‘Always stood behind the agriculture community’: Dawson Creek Stampede president remembers Connie Patterson

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — A cherished regional event is mourning the loss of a long-time supporter and advocate for the western way of life.

Connie Patterson was the former president of the Dawson Creek Exhibition and Stampede, an annual summertime event which has over a century of history. 

Patterson passed away on Friday, April 24th, according to a Facebook post from the event.

Murray Pratt is the president of the Dawson Creek Exhibition Association, who oversees the Stampede, and chatted with Energeticcity.ca over Patterson’s passing.

Pratt said he and Patterson worked together for two decades to organize the Stampede. Among other accolades, Patterson’s efforts saw her recognized as the Canadian Pro Rodeo Association committee person of the year in 2024.

“Connie was a dedicated supporter of the Dawson Creek exhibition [in] rodeo and chuckwagons,” said Pratt. “She was a huge advocate for the agriculture fair and the local youth programs in ranching and cattle farming.”

“She had a deep-rooted passion for the Western way of life, and always stood behind the agriculture community.”

Pratt described Patterson as a “mentor and friend” to a lot of people involved with the association, and a tribute honouring Patterson will happen at the August Stampede once details are finalized.

“She does leave a legacy for us to follow in the community,” said Pratt.  “This is important for the association and moving forward as we follow her lead and continue her legacy.”

The 2026 Dawson Creek Exhibition and Stampede is scheduled for Wednesday, August 5th to Sunday, August 9th 2026 at the fairgrounds located on 249 116th Avenue in Dawson Creek.