Photo: Patricia’s 83rd Birthday – March 12, 2022
Patricia Ann Peterson passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, January 22, 2023, in Sparks, NV after suffering a fall just three weeks prior. At the time of her passing, Patricia was surrounded by family and an abundance of love and care.
Patricia was born on March 12, 1939, in Escanaba, MI. She was the youngest of five children born to the late William B. and Eva F. Garbett. She had three sisters, Eva, Laurie, Carol; and one brother William who all preceded her in death. Patricia was also preceded in death by her late husband Leslie D. Peterson, on May 8, 2013, and her son Jeffrey A. Peterson, on September 3, 2012.
Raised in Escanaba, Patricia graduated from Escanaba Area High School in 1957. She was involved in many student programs, clubs and activities growing up – and enjoyed sharing stories of those early years. While attending high school Patricia was involved in many youth groups, worked at the local movie theaters, as well as the corner dime store. She enjoyed singing in the Methodist church youth choir, where she met Leslie, her husband, and the love of her life.
They were married September 7, 1957, and went on to have five children. They celebrated 55 years of marriage until Leslie’s passing in 2013.
Patricia is survived by her four sons, Paul (Appleton, WI) Robert (Brownsburg, IN), Richard (San Francisco, CA), and Patrick (Sparks, NV). She is also survived by four grandchildren (Stacy, Justin, Michael, and Megan), two step-grandchildren (Nicolette and RJ), four great-grandchildren (Oliver, Zeke, Willow, and Baylie) and one step-great grandchild (Calli).
Besides being an amazing Mom, Patricia also worked for Woolworths, the Hallmark Store, and Montgomery Wards. She was a huge supporter of her children’s school activities and would never miss a high school track meet, basketball game, play, concert, or other activities. She juggled work, family, and the children’s activities to be there to support and cheer them on.
Patricia supported, admired, and loved all her children in their decisions to live life to the fullest. She became an advocate and supporter of LGBTQ+ rights; an immense connection and support to her gay sons. Patricia did this at
a time when others turned away and paved the way for many a discussion by her honesty and openness. She did this by sharing her journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and love. Patricia was always known for opening her home and her heart to family, relatives, friends, neighbors, and anyone who needed support or just a cup of coffee over good conversation. Her sense of humor and quick wit that made anyone feel welcome.
Patricia and Leslie moved from Escanaba to the Washington DC in 1987. They became resident managers of a garden apartment complex in Alexandria, VA, and for 15 years thoroughly enjoyed their time with the residents and the local community. And for years later, Patricia kept in touch with the close friends made. In 2005, Patricia and Leslie retired to Susanville, CA to be closer to her sister Carol and extended family. In 2013, Patricia moved to Reno, NV, after the passing of her husband.
Patricia in her later years enjoyed all that life offered; whether spending time with family and friends, or chatting with neighbors, sitting for hours sharing stories, past and present. A few of her favorite pastimes were doing crossword puzzles and watching her favorite old westerns. Patricia was affectionately known by many as “Ms. Hallmark” for all the cards she would send for every birthday, holiday, or special celebration. She enjoyed making her famous Cornish pasties, homemade chilis, stews, or baking favorite sweets that everyone enjoyed. Patricia also enjoyed her time tending to flowers and plants, always brightening the yard or the home. But most of all, Patricia lived a full life, truly happy and surrounded by so many and had so much love that will carry on forever.
Details for the celebration of life for Patricia will be shared with family and friends at a later date. For condolences, donations can be made in Patricia’s name to the following non-profits that she supported: St. Jude’s
( www.stjude.org ), the Disabled American Veterans ( www.dav.org ), or PLFAG ( www.pflag.org/donate/ )