Patricia K. Strain

Patricia K. Strain, 83, of Oak Harbor, died peacefully in her home on Oct. 15, 2007. She was born in Detroit, Mich., on July 5, 1924, to William C. and Frances L. Kelly.

She grew up during the tumultuous times surrounding World War II and once considered joining the Marines. She married Stanley C. Strain on Jan. 11, 1947, and together they raised a family of seven children, moving around the country in multiple vehicles before settling in southern California. Patricia worked at Baxter International, Inc. in Irvine, for 16 years and retired in 1988.

After living in Florida for several years and following heart surgery in 2001, Patricia was invited to share the home of her daughter Kelly when her husband Jim’s Navy career brought them all to Whidbey Island.

Patricia was known in her later years for her overwhelming generosity, sense of humor and graciousness. She was an expert crossword puzzle-solver, a fierce card player and always found time to chat about her amazing grandchildren.

Patricia was preceded in death by her husband, Stanley, her younger sister Kathleen Shortt, and her oldest son Stanley C. (Rocky) Strain, Jr.

She is survived by her children, Elizabeth Chalfant of Langley, Kelly Jolly and Giovanni Strain of Oak Harbor, and her California children, Stacy Vesta, and Steve and Chris Strain. Pat also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A memorial celebration of her life is scheduled for 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27, at her daughter Kelly’s home.