Obituaries

The last time I saw Patty, we had a very candid and honest discussion concerning her spiritual beliefs about death and dying. I was so impressed with her determination and acceptance of what was continuously challenging those beliefs. She inspired me from the first time I met her back in 1982. A bunch of us, including Wayne, were stranded by a snow storm after a few days of skiing and we had to stay an extra night because the roads were closed due to ice and lots of snow. Encouraged by Patty, some of us took advantage of the roads being closed and cross country skied on the highway at midnight. Patty was adventurous, spiritual, inclusive and brought so much laughter everywhere she went. My deepest thoughts and love go out to you Wayne and Sofia and all of her family and friends. She is in our hearts forever!

Posted by Leslie Brown on March 16, 2025

Wayne, Sophie, We are so sorry for your loss. Patty was a truly special person. She had such a wonderful presence and energy, and she always knew how to make people feel welcomed and comfortable. I will miss her laugh and terrific sense of humor. Mehdi and I really enjoyed getting to visit with both of you when you were in Bethesda last year. We think of you all often and Patty will be sorely missed. Sending our love from DC, Katy and Mehdi

Posted by Katy and Mehdi on March 16, 2025

Wayne, Sophie and family, Beth - our deepest sympathies are with you. Cousin Patty was a joy to be with and we are so happy to have reconnected a few years ago! You will continue to be in our wonderful memories and prayers.

Posted by Lee Ann Philippbar King on March 16, 2025

My husband Scott and I were Greenlake neighbors of Patty and Wayne for quite a few years. Although I hadn’t seen them in a long time because we moved out of the area, I remember Patty with such warmth. I first met her because I went to an aerobics class at our community center, and I found out the delightful instructor had just become my neighbor! I still remember that she created a really fun routine for a Billy Joel song. So sorry to hear of her passing - the world has lost a lovely person. I send my sincere condolences to Wayne and her other family members.

Posted by Elaine Marklund on March 12, 2025

I met Patty in 1984 when we both went back to grad school at the UW in Public Affairs. We hit if off immediately. I loved her enthusiasm and sense of humor. We both were a bit wild in those days, so it was fun to have a partner in crime. We stayed in touch throughout our working careers but got especially close when I moved back to Seattle from Olympia when we decided to do the Seattle to Portland bike ride. I had the idea, but Patty was the engine. We trained for several months and completed the ride in July 2007. It was a lifelong desire of mine to do this, and I will always be grateful to her for helping make it a reality. Later we both got into yoga after we retired and that was another love we shared. Then she became a teacher! The dearest part of being Patty's friend is exactly what was written in her obituary. She always added people together to make a bigger circle. I met many good friends through her auspices. I will miss our frequent walks at Magnuson Park and our political discussions. And I will always be grateful to have shared in her warm spirit and friendship over the years.

Posted by Nickie L Moran on March 9, 2025

Everyone who came within Patty’s sphere was blessed to receive the gift of her joy, humor and grace. I never think of her without a smile and a sense of warmth. My heart is with you, Sophie, and Brooklyn during these difficult days of transition. We’ll see you Sunday. Bless you, my friend- Maggie Webster

Posted by Maggie Webster on March 9, 2025

Wayne, i am absolutely heartbroken to hear of Patty's passing. Even though I never met Patty in person, I felt like I knew her through our endless hours of chat about all things in life. Your deep love and respect for her was amazing and something all married couples should have. You are both lucky to have each other for so many years. .I will keep you and your family in my thoughts. Hugs. Karen

Posted by Karen Haydon on March 8, 2025

I had the great good fortune to attend Harvey High School with Patty. To say she was special is an overused expression but I’ll go ahead and use it anyway. Patty was special. Love that girl. She will be sorely missed. Richard Stanzi

Posted by Richard Stanzi on March 7, 2025

I had the great good fortune to attend Harvey High School with Patty. To say she was special is an overused expression but I’ll go ahead and use it anyway. Patty was special. Love that girl. She will be sorely missed. Richard Stanzi

Posted by Richard Stanzi on March 7, 2025

I feel so lucky to have known Patty for maybe 20 years. We were both athletes, and we both attended some of the same classes at the gym that used to be called ProRobics on 45th. (The name changed to The Seattle Gym, but the location eventually closed entirely.) Over time, we talked about her career writing for nonprofits and my career in science writing. Later, in another parallel, we both studied yoga at 8 Limbs Yoga Studios, but were not in the same class. I'm glad that Patty had the years with her granddaughter and lived such a full life.

Posted by Sally James on March 2, 2025

Patty brought the light of creation with her wherever she went. Her time here was well spent!

Posted by Craig Schieber on March 2, 2025

How do you say goodbye to a friend of over 70 years? Patty and I were friends from age 3. We always had such great fun together. She was so full of life. I am so happy that I had the chance to spend time with her in September at our 55th reunion. Rest in peace dear Patty. Betsy

Posted by Betsy Walker on March 1, 2025

‘How to hold a wave upon the sand?’ Patty was such a treasure of ideas, laughter, humor and love. A creator of social connections beyond anyone I have ever known. ‘How do you hold a moonbeam in your hand?’ Words fail to express our loss of her indomitable spirit. Chris

Posted by Christine Bender on February 23, 2025

Patty was a dear friend for decades and I miss her every day. Thank you (daughter) Sophie for your beautiful tribute and a very special thanks to Wayne for keeping Patty with us for so many extra years! Lots of love, Ann

Posted by Ann Heath on February 17, 2025

Good Lord, so now I’m crying all over again! What a beautiful tribute, Wayne and Sophie, and whoever else helped craft such a wonderful love letter. Loved that gal so much. ❤️🎶

Posted by Michael Romoser on February 17, 2025