July 17, 1938- January 20, 2024
Patricia Elizabeth White, born on July 17, 1938, peacefully departed on January 20th, 2024, at the age of 85.
Patricia was born in Glasgow Valley, MT to James and Regna Gage. Her family relocated to Bremerton, WA in 1941, where her father worked in the Naval Shipyard. Patricia’s family moved to the Randal Valley, WA in 1945 to assist with the Taylor-Watts family homestead, a legacy dating back to the 1890s.
A graduate of Randal High School in 1956, Patricia’s journey in healthcare began when she graduated from St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1959. During her training, she served as a surgical nurse at Morton Hospital in Randal.
In 1955, Patricia met Ken White, who worked for the US Forest Service in Randal, WA. Their marriage in 1959 marked the beginning of a 63-year partnership. Their early years together included a brief stint in Chehalis, WA, where Patricia worked at St. Helens Hospital and their son, Greg, was born in 1960. Subsequently, they resided in Corvallis, OR, where Ken pursued forestry studies at Oregon State University, and Patricia worked at Good Samaritan Hospital, and welcomed their daughter, Lora, in 1962.
The couple’s journey continued in 1967 when Ken’s career led them to Snoqualmie Pass, WA, where Patricia worked at Nelems Memorial Hospital in the Snoqualmie Valley. Settling in North Bend, WA, in 1976 where they would spend their next 47 years. Patricia’s professional trajectory evolved, encompassing roles at Group Health in Redmond, WA, and later as a Home Health Nurse in North Bend. Her commitment to excellence led her to pursue further education in Nursing Administration at City University, culminating in a position at Evergreen Home Health in 1995.
Retiring from nursing in 1999 after a distinguished 30-year career, Patricia and Ken embarked on adventures, exploring numerous (27!) countries worldwide. Patricia’s passions included crafting jewelry, gardening, and directing Ken when he worked on their house. She also enjoyed outdoor pursuits such as skiing, hiking, and biking. Above all, her devotion to family was unwavering, always ready to offer support and guidance.
Patricia leaves behind a legacy of dedication to her family, community, and profession. She is survived by her sister, Linda Albertson, her son Greg White (wife Kathy), her daughter Lora Bunch (husband Michael), five grandchildren – Kristin, Alyssa, Kelly, Allie, and Riley – and eight great-grandchildren – Anja, Quin, Asher, Mendel, Sarah, Libby, Goldie, and Gracie.
In remembrance of a life well-lived, Patricia will be dearly missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Friends are invited to get service information and share memories on Patricia’s tribute wall at www.flintofts.com. Flintoft’s Funeral Home, 425-392-6444.
