I was most saddened to learn today of Pat's passing. Pat and Robert befriended me while I was a member of St. George's Episcopal Church, in the late 1980's and early '90's; they understood that I was at a difficult point in my life and offered me support and understanding. Pat sensed when I was ready for her to start urging me to learn how to find appropriate work, first by volunteering at what was then CEDEN and then by doing temporary work; I am more indebted to her than I can express for her love, support, and wisdom. As part of their befriending of me, Pat and Robert encouraged me to attend the St. George's parish retreat at Camp Allen in 1988 when I was still fearful and reluctant about doing it; I ended up riding there and back with them, visiting of course during the two reasonably long trips and then later in their home. I also have fond memories of Pat introducing me to Austin theater, especially performances I would otherwise have missed of "Fiddler on the Roof" and "Evita," both of which I attended with her and Robert. A major image that comes to mind when I think of Pat, apart from how sensitive and supportive she was--and just plain interesting!--is the way she assiduously combed the papers for coupons that would help her buy more food for the hungry families she was so devoted to serving; that may sound like a small thing, but I think it epitomizes her very special combination of caring and resourcefulness. I want to express my deepest condolences to Denise and all of Pat's family; Pat will always remain a cherished memory for me.

Pat Shoop was someone to be admired.  As I told Denise, she was always an "up" person...she really enjoyed living and delighted in what life had to offer.  She was always interesting and did everything with elegance and style.

I remember she collected hippos.  To me the hippo represents the qualities of strength and endurance...qualities that Pat Shoop also characterized.

My best memory of mother-in-law Pat comes from being in awe of her when she would watch Jeopardy!, one of her favorite game shows. Her ability to recall facts in correctly answering questions never ceased to amaze me.  She was also a huge baseball fan and her knowledge of baseball history, facts, and teams was really quite remarkable. I really think she was one of the smartest women I ever met. I gained a great deal of respect for Pat through the years, especially when I found out how compassionate she was about helping out those who were less fortunate. She donated her time and money for many causes and kept up her donations even when she became very ill. We lost her on Christmas Day, and even though it was hard on us we knew that she loved fancy parties and she was called home to heaven to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the biggest party of them all. Rest in peace Pat, we love you and miss you but know you will always be in our hearts.

OBITUARY

Patricia Margaret Shoop

February 3, 1931 – December 25, 2013

Cook-Walden Funeral Home

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