Patricia Hawkins' Obituary
Patricia A. McLean Hawkins, 80, of Tacoma, Wa, passed away peacefully February 8, 2015. Raised on Day Island, Tacoma, by parents Archie McLean Jr and Margaret Krull. She was the Great grand daughter of Henry Mahncke, Tacoma, and had one brother, Archie McLean III, of Lakewood. She graduated from Washington State University, on scholarship, later obtaining her Masters at the University of Illinois, certification from the Santa Barbara Music Academy, plus advanced study on grant from the Seattle Music and Art foundation, at the Vienna (Austria) Academy of Music. Patricia worked intensively under authorities such as Dr. Ernst Reichert, Herr Mueller, Frau Kohler and once internationally renowned tenor, Tina Pattiera. In the course of her two year residence in Europe, Patricia traveled extensively receiving further instruction in Italy and Belgium. She was welcomed upon arrival as the embassy house guest of James Penfield, American Consul General in Vienna. An incredibly gifted, accomplished classical opera singer and pianist, Patricia performed throughout the Unites States and Europe, consistently receiving notable acclaim, including the Conrad Hilton Grand Ballroom, Chicago, the largest Ballroom in the World at the time. She spent her career teaching elementary school, primarily music, after settling in Tacoma to raise a family. Over many years she was an active member at University Place Presbyterian. Sadly, mental illness robbed Patricia of her full potential for her last 50 years. Through it all, she remained a loving, extraordinary parent and human being; kind, compassionate, selfless, wise, strong, always seeking the good in everything, and the best in people. Patricia’s moral compass was second to none. She was her son’s “hero”. Patricia loved classical music, tennis, skiing, animals, water activities and spending time with family. She is survived by her son, Jim McLean, daughter in law Rebecca McLean, grandson, J. Blake McLean, two nephews Scott and Mark McLean and a niece, Marsi Doran. Remembrances may be shared through Mountain View Funeral Home, at www.mountainviewtacoma.com.
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