Patricia Ann Harshfield

Patricia Ann Harshfield passed away on November 28, 2009. She was born on July 31, 1962 in Shawnee Mission, Kansas. Trish affected many peoples’ lives as a Respiratory Therapist working in critical care at Memorial Hermann-TMC. Trish cared for those who could not care for themselves. Her career choice is the natural progression of a caring and giving spirit. She was, and will continue to be, an inspiration to all who knew her. Trish led by example, imparting life’s valuable lessons to all those around her. Her smile and laughter were contagious and her light will shine on through the many beautiful memories we had with her. Trish is survived by her mother, Helen Suits, sisters Marsha Moeller and Sandra Gray, husband Michael Harshfield, children Nicole Dougherty, Jacob Maier, Jared Maier and Olivia Maier, stepchildren Katheryn Harshfield and Timothy Harshfield, and her beloved grandsons Teagan Dougherty and Blake Maier.       When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a motivated, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits Patricia Ann Harshfield. She will be remembered as being active, practical and realistic. She was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with her throughout her life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Patricia was an individual who clearly communicated to those around her just who she was and what she was all about. Everyone acquainted with Patricia knew her as a well-respected woman who was a stable force in her community.       Her parents were Frank and Helen Snyder. Patricia was raised in Shawnee Mission, Kansas. Even as a youngster, Patricia learned to be objective and decisive. Her faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that she carried with her throughout her life.Patricia was raised with two siblings. She had two older sisters, Marsha and Sandy.       Trish's matter-of-fact attitude about most things was developed during her childhood. As a young girl, Trish enjoyed being part of teams, and organizations and groups of other kids who shared similar interests. Trish took part in 4-H horse shows, dance, and band. She was a member of 4-H. In her spare time she liked being with her horses and constantly stayed busy with various activities.      In school, Trish was as close to being a model student as one could possibly imagine. She maintained high grades while being very active in extracuricular clubs and organizations. Patricia’s personal motto could well have been, “Carpe Diem.” She graduated from Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in 1980. In addition to being a member of the National Honor Society, she was the editor of the school newspaper and gave the opening remarks at her graduation ceremony. She participated in Band, playing the clarinet and was part of the High School Chorus.      Trish’s practical work ethic carried over into her college years. Trish's orderly nature gave way to establishing personal study habits and procedures that not only helped her stay on track but often put her ahead of schedule. When Patricia saw the need or benefit, she would willingly take on the extra assignment or even attend extra classes in order to learn more and become a better student. She earned her Associates in Applied Science-Respiratory Care from Lone Star College in 2002. She was also pursuing her Bachelors of Science-Biology and expected to graduate from University of Houston-Downtown in 2010. Her favorite courses were her science courses, because they challenged her and pyschology, because she learned so much about herself. Trish graduated her Respiratory Care program with the highest class average.      An objective and conscientious individual, Trish reveled in the security of her family. One of Trish’s most endearing qualities was the protectiveness she had over her family and self scrificing love. Trish was ever watchful of her children. She worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up. She maintained a firm hand in their upbringing. Patricia was blessed with four children, two daughers, Nicole and Olivia, and two sons, Jacob and Jared. They were also blessed with two grandsons and another grandson expected in January, Teagan, Blake, and Zander.      Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Trish was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. She was able to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track. She worked cooperatively and expected the same from her colleagues. In both her personal and professional environments, Patricia upheld her standards. Her primary occupation was respiratory care. She was employed by Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center. Patricia was a team player who certainly lived out the motto of “give me a job, and I will get it done.”      Trish approached her leisure time in the same manner that she approached her life. She believed in the motto, "work hard, play hard", and she appreciated the hours she was able to devote to her various hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were cooking for her family, gardening, playing with her dogs, and watching sporting events. Trish was content to enjoy her favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share her interests with others. Recreational sports included working out and the occasional volleyball game. She also was something of a sports fan and enjoyed watching her favorite events whenever she got the opportunity. Tops on her list were New York Giants football, New York Yankee baseball, Houston Rockets basketball and Triple Crown horse racing.       Politically, Trish was a strong supporter of the Republican Party. She was proud of her country and a true patriot. She was always ready to dive into a debate on new political developments and understood the importance of the people's role in our government.      Trish was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. She has many in her lifetime but two of Trish’s favorites were King, her Chihuahua and Oscar, her horse.      Trish passed away on November 28, 2009 at Houston Hospice in Houston, TX. She is survived by her husband Michael; children Nicole, Jacob, Jared and Olivia; her stepchildren Katheryn and Timothy; grandsons Teagan and Blake; sisters Marsha and Sandy; and mother Helen. Services were held at The Fellowship of The Woodlands. Trish was laid to rest in Forest Park Cemetary in The Woodlands, Texas.      All who knew her would agree that Patricia was a pillar of the community. She lived her life with her feet firmly on the ground. She had a strong work ethic, was pragmatic in her thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. She was willing to share her ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Patricia Ann Harshfield did her best to ensure that her family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life she touched was given the chance to become a better person.