Patricia Elin Smith

Patricia Elin Smith passed away on October 24,2025, in Beaverton, Oregon. She was 90 years old. Pat was born on Sept 6, 1935, in Newell, Iowa. She grew up in Sac City, Iowa, with five brothers: Teddy, Jim, Bob, Richard and John.

Her parents, Ernest and Blanch Jensen, had her baptized in their home by a Lutheran pastor. In her youth, she was an avid roller skater, bicycler, swimmer and sledder. Pat graduated from high school in 1953 and then went on to work at the local hospital as a nurse’s aide for almost two years.

While attending high school, she met Loran Smith on a blind date at the roller skating rink. Loran was home on leave at the time. They started writing to each other and dating for the next two years. After he was discharged from the Navy, the two were wed on April 3, 1955. They were married for 69 years until Loran passed away last year.

The couple began their married life in Jolly Iowa. Over the next several years, they were blessed with three children as they settled in Eugene, Oregon. Their children include: daughters Peggy Nydegger, Luann Spronk and son Kevin Smith. Grandchildren include: Christopher Nydegger, Olivia and Jackyln Spronk, son-in-law Joe Nydegger, and three great grandchildren. She also had several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

While a mother, Pat worked as a cook for a local high school for several years. After that, she and Loran moved to Beaverton where the two loved square dancing, camping and attending lots of potlucks. Over the years, Pat joined a sewing group and learned to sew quilts for high school kids and families at their church. An incredibly talented seamstress, she sewed everything from quilts, table coverings, scarves and baby blankets. Generous to many, she gave them as gifts to lucky family members and pals. Pat also enjoyed making greeting cards and giving them away to others. In the end, she remained a friend to many, especially to: Helen, Celia, Saeed, Dana and Patty, to mention only a few.

A funny, feisty and fabulous soul, Pat lived a full and meaningful life, even planning on making sparkling jewelry trees with one of her best friends near the very end.

A memorial service will be held December 7th at 2pm at St Matthew’s Lutheran Church 10390 SW Canyon Road Beaverton, Oregon 97005