Margaret Patterson's Obituary
Margaret Mae (Robblee) Patterson "Her children arise and call her blessed" Prov 31:28 On Feb. 4, 2009, with her children at her side, Margaret Mae Patterson passed peacefully from this life to her heavenly home. Margaret was born Feb. 20, 1918 in Tacoma, WA to William A. and Bertha M. Robblee. Margaret lived her entire life in Tacoma, and attended school at Whitman, Stewart and Lincoln, proudly graduating in the Class of 1936. She remained close friends with many of her school "chums" throughout the years. When it appeared her class was going to stop having reunions, she agreed to co-chair the 65th, 70th, and 75th class reunions. Margaret worked as a bookkeeper and secretary following business college. She worked until she met the love of her life, Thomas H. (Pat) Patterson, in 1943. They were engaged 3 months later and were married in November of that same year. Sadly, their marriage ended with Pat's death in 1972. Margaret was a stay-at-home mom, maintaining a meticulous home, helping the PTA, church, friends or family. After her children graduated from high school, she dusted off her bookkeeping skills and went to work for the family business, Robblee's Total Security, Inc. She retired in 1995 at the age of 78. By this time, the business was owned by the third generation, her son John. She loved working for him and with her daughter-in-law Gail, and with her grandchildren Julie and Jim. She said it was time to quit when even the salesmen all started calling her grandma. Following retirement, Margaret traveled extensively. She brought joy to all who knew her, and is remembered for her infectious wit, unfailing memory, constant smile, and her kind and loving heart. Enjoying life to the fullest, she was an example to others in all that she did. She treasured her family and friends, and was always ready to lend a hand. Margaret was active in the 1918 Club and The Old Town Music Society. She was a faithful servant of the Lord and regularly attended United Church in University Place until the time of her recent illness. Left behind to cherish her legacy are her beloved children Jane Hawkins and John Patterson (Gail). She will also be missed by grandchildren Julie Hochsprung (Brock), Jim Patterson (Janie), and John Patterson, and great-grandchildren Matt, Edward, Brandon, Alex, Stella and Hannah, who all delighted her heart. Margaret was devoted to her many nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends. In addition to her husband, Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, brother William H. Robblee, sister Lois E. McKay, and son-in-law Tom Hawkins. The family wishes to express deep gratitude for the loving and compassionate care given to Margaret at Tacoma General Hospital, Phillip's Cardiac Care Unit by doctors and staff and Dr. SabrinaEBenjamin. Please join Margaret's family and friends to celebrate her life on Monday, Feb. 9, 2009 at 1:00p.m. at United Church in University Place, 3912 Grandview Drive West, University Place, WA 98466. Viewing will be TODAY, Feb. 8, from noon to 9pm at Mountain View Funeral Home. Remembrances may be made in Margaret's name to either United Church in University Place Memorial Fund, or MultiCare Health Foundation, Attention:ECarol Milgard Breast Center, P.O. Box 5296, Tacoma, WA 98415. Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home, 253-584-0252. Please sign online guest book at www.mountainviewtacoma.com .
What’s your fondest memory of Margaret?
What’s a lesson you learned from Margaret?
Share a story where Margaret's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Margaret you’ll never forget.
How did Margaret make you smile?