Murdered Kwikwetlem councillor ‘will be deeply missed’

Stephanie Patterson was a “resilient and dedicated spirit” who was excited to serve as an elected councillor, according to a statement from the Kwikwetlem First Nation commemorating Patterson.

Patterson’s body was found in a rural area of Mission after being reported missing. She was 44.

David Hall, 57, is facing a charge of second-degree murder in connection with Patterson’s death.

A survivor of the ‘60s scoop, Patterson grew up in several foster homes and was adopted twice, according to Kwikwetlem First Nation.

Patterson married Hall, a Kwikwetlem First Nation member. They had three children before separating.

While her roots are in the Musqueam First Nation, Patterson officially became member a member of Kwikwetlem First Nation in 2016.

After being elected Kwikwetlem councillor last spring, Patterson was appointed to lead the nation’s community services division. She was excited to serve as a councillor, recalled Kwikwetlem Chief Ron Giesbrecht.

“She was passionate about helping all members of our community – our children, youth, adults and Elders – and to improving community participation and engagement to help create a vibrant and self-governing Nation,” Giesbrecht stated.

Patterson aimed to increase cultural knowledge and economic prosperity, stated Coun. George Chaffee.

“She will be deeply missed by Kwikwetlem leadership and to all who knew her,” Chaffee stated.

The nation offered no comment on the arrest of David Hall and asked for privacy in respect for the grieving community.

Prior to being elected, Patterson supported Kwikwetlem First Nation’s archaeological work and provided community support for Elders, according to the release.

She also worked for six years at Saskay Land Development on setɬamékmən (Coquitlam I.R. 2). Translated as ““when the tide is high we go,” and roughly pronounced set-slo-mik-mon, setɬamékmən is approximately 200 acres and is under development.