Patricia Lois Storer

Patricia Lois Storer, 87, of Modesto, a generous and loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend to many who embraced life's journey with grace and unwavering independence, went to be with the Lord on February 4, 2025, peacefully at her home with family at her side. She leaves behind her cherished children, Donald Storer (Julie) and Wendee Heinrich (Gordon); her sisters, Gail Fairfield and Marion Elmore; Twelve (12) grandchildren; and (24) great-grandchildren. In 1975, Pat was preceded in death by her beloved son, David Brian Storer, twin to Donald, brother to Wendee. Also preceding her in death were her parents, Homer Norton Ewin and Jo Walter Ewin; her brother, Homer Norton Ewin, Jr.; and the father of her children, Warren Storer.

Born in Needles, California, on November 28, 1937, to Homer Norton Ewin and Jo Walter Ewin, Pat's roots were firmly planted in Modesto. She navigated her early years through Lincoln and Wilson Elementary Schools, Roosevelt Junior High, and was among the first classes to attend Downey High School for all four years, graduating from the class of 1956. Pat was an independent, sharp-witted force, her wit cutting through any pretense. She fiercely loved God, her family, and her friends. Her friendships were a testament to her character, some stretching back to her earliest days in elementary school and remaining close through her passing. Those bonds were unbreakable. But above all else, Pat's life was defined by her devotion to her family. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her greatest joy, the very heart of her world. They were her legacy, and her love for them was boundless.

Patricia Storer spent her career as a second-generation force at Storer Transportation, officially joining the family business in 1966. Storer Transportation, founded in 1952 in Modesto, is a provider of diverse transportation services, including school busing. She was the manager of Storer's school bus division, where she dedicated her entire career to transporting special needs students to schools throughout Stanislaus County. She was dedicated to ensuring the safe and comfortable transport of special needs students. Colleagues at Storer would say she ran a tight ship, demanding excellence and precision. Her laser focus on quality was contagious, and she instilled that value in everyone she touched. Beyond her leadership, Pat was one of Storer's greatest mentors. Those who worked with her knew they had the best teacher, learning not just the mechanics of their jobs but also the importance of dedication and meticulousness. She instilled a commitment to excellence that remains a hallmark of Storer Transportation to this day.

Beyond her professional life, Pat embraced a wide range of passions and interests. She loved to travel, both domestically and internationally, and as a history enthusiast, she made sure to visit many of the most notable US historical landmarks and almost all of the National Parks. Her travel style was energetic; vacations with her often required a second vacation to recover, as she was determined to see everything. She once bought a one-way ticket to New Zealand, with no itinerary or return date, a journey she recalled as one of her most memorable. She could recall all her adventures from memory. Her travels often began with a train ticket and one of her grandchildren. Pat loved the rhythm of the rails, the passing scenery, and the chance encounters that often blossomed into lasting friendships. Back home, she enjoyed playing Bridge or any card game, working in her garden, and tending to her cows. Her garden wasn't just a hobby; it was a source of pride, fueling her legendary cooking. In her later years, Pat's hospitality extended beyond family and friends. She opened her farmhouse to travelers from around the globe, welcoming them as Airbnb guests as they made their way to and from Yosemite National Park. This new chapter, which she enjoyed for many years, brought her joy and connection with people from all walks of life from around the world. Pat was an avid reader, spending much of her free time immersed in books.

Patricia Lois Storer's memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved her. A memorial service in her honor will be held at Lakewood Memorial Park's Riverside Chapel (900 Santa Fe Avenue, Hughson, CA) at 11:00 AM on March 7th, 2025.

In Lieu of flowers, the family would love donations to be made in Pat Storer’s memory to:

Society of disAbilities

1129 8th Street, Suite 101, Modesto, CA 95354

Community Hospice & Health Services

4368 Spyres Way, Modesto CA 95356