Mrs. Patricia Jeanne Paul

Patricia Jean Paul (Slusher) was born in Portland, Oregon November 23, 1934, to John and Fern Slusher (Jacobson). With her sister Sally and brother Don, the family resided in the St. Johns neighborhood. Pat attended Roosevelt High School where she developed life-long friendships that she treasured while being an active member of her class reunion committee.

Pat met the love of her life, Fred, while attending Portland State University where he was a center on the football team, and she was on the Viking Pep Squad. They were married at Faith Lutheran Church on August 14,1953 and spent 57 years together before Fred’s death in 2010.

Although unable to complete her degree at that time, many years later, with four children and a full-time job, Pat earned her undergraduate degree at PSU in 1976, followed by her master’s degree in 1979.

A pioneer in her field of special education, Pat assisted in the integrated classes of children with special needs in the 1960’s. She taught in the Parkrose school district until her retirement in 1993. A dedicated member of Resurrection Lutheran Church, Pat enjoyed teaching adult bible study, and reading scripture for the Sunday services.

Pat was an authentic Oregonian in every sense of the word. A true outdoors woman, she was an avid hiker, environmentally conscious, and enjoyed hunting and fishing with her family. She made Townsend Farm berry jams, pickled Rossi Farm cucumbers, made Tillamook cheese sandwiches, and vacationed on the Oregon Coast where she was known to swim in the ocean without a wet suit.

She leaves behind children David (Karon), Greg (Lisa), Kelly (Bob), and her brother Don Slusher (Patty). Pat made lasting memories with her 6 grandchildren Lindsay (Patrick), Michael, Audrey (Patrick), Lauren (Efrain), Leighton (Travis), and Lenny. She was fortunate to know her great grandchildren Cole and Hudson. Beloved son, Jeff, preceded her in death in 2013.

Private family service has taken place. Celebration of Life in Spring of 2023.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Meals on Wheels, or Resurrection Lutheran Church in Parkrose.