Patricia Ruth Leonard's Obituary
Patricia LeonardAugust 22, 1928 - July 11, 2004Patricia Leonard was born in Tacoma to Stella and Harry Lyons, and spent most of her life in the area. She graduated from the UW after which she taught art in Omak. There she met John Leonard, who taught English and drama. The two wed in 1954, and continued their careers in Lacy. Following the birth of their children, the family moved to Lakewood, where Pat became a homemaker and John continued as an educator.Pat and John formed a distinctly harmonious marriage and nurturing family life. Both parents lived by discerning intelligence, selflessness, and personal integrity. Their household embodied Pat's industrious creativity; it seemed that there was nothing she could not design or craft. Following John's death in 1980, Pat worked as an artist for Clover Park School District in a position from which she never retired, and which afforded opportunity for her perpetual inventiveness. Whatever the occasion, she made life memorable and fun.Pat showed inspiring resilience and tenacious adaptability when faced with cancer. She maintained her independence, optimism, and sense of humor throughout her courageous odyssey. While in the last chapter of her life, she continued writing yet another page.Pat is survived by her children Kate (Jim) and Jeff (Meg); grandchildren Emma and Zane; brother John (Jan) Lyons and a corps of devoted friends. Pat's family thanks Dr. Alfred Chan and staff for their care.A gathering in celebration of Pat's life is planned for August 22; details to be announced
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