Patricia Jane East

Born April 14, 1927, Deceased August 8, 2018, Patricia passed away quietly after a short illness having lived a full life. Patricia lived as a devoted daughter to her parents, George and Margaret and mother-in-law Ada. She was reared in Detroit where she was an unwavering fan of the Red Wings and frequently attended games at Olympia Stadium.

Patricia spent many summers with her cousins in Canada, creating memories she loved to share. Her husband Mickey, a devoted educator, received her support for advanced schooling, as well as his tireless availability to his students as a teacher, counselor, coach, and mentor. Patricia set a high bar for her daughters to do any task or job well and to learn from mistakes in doing so. Her daughters were raised to be independent, educated, engaged citizens and giving of their gifts and talents.

Her skill as a bookkeeper supported family summer travels across the country, the gift of college education for her daughters, and her own world travels. Patricia was a life member of the International Order of the Eastern Star; taking great pride in her ritual work in the order and friendships with members. She took the Biblical story of Ruth to heart and served the Order as Grand Ruth with great passion. Patricia loved caring for and following her grandsons’ pursuits in music, cross country, swimming, and track at Haslett Public Schools and the University of Michigan.

Patricia is survived by two loving daughters, Debra from Lander, Wyoming and Karen (James Ecklund) from East Lansing, and grandsons, Peter, Joseph, and Mitchell Ecklund. Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carl “Mickey” East and parents, George Walsh and Margaret (Ott) Walsh.

Visitation will be held at Forster Woods Adult Day Center, 4656 Meridian Rd, Williamston, Michigan from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, August 12, 2018. Memorial Service will be held at St. Katherine’s Episcopal Church, 4650 Meridian Rd, Williamston, Michigan at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 13, 2018.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memory of Patricia East to Haslett Public Schools, Attn: Business Office, 5593 Franklin St., Haslett, MI 48840.

The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Chapel. Online condolences may be expressed at www.greastlansing.com.