Elsie Patricia Pirtle

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Elsie Pirtle on November 7, 2023, on her beloved ranch in Cathey's Valley, CA. Pat, age of 86, died peacefully in her sleep while taking an afternoon nap. She was a descendant of the early pioneer families of Mariposa County.

Pat was born March 14, 1937 in Merced, CA, to Chet and Elsie Visher. She grew up in La Grange, and as a teenager moved to Merced area and 60 years ago to the ranch in Cathey's Valley. She attended Merced High School, where she proudly played the trumpet with Merced Marching 100 Band. Pat worked tirelessly on the family ranch and was employed and retired from Oasis Food in Planada, and was a member of the Teamsters Union. In her spare time, she enjoyed bowling and playing softball. Pat was a 4-H Leader, officer in the Cathey's Valley School PTIC, member of the Merced Mariposa County Cowbells, and an active participant in the Cowbell's mounted horse-riding troupe where she attended parades throughout the mountain towns and San Joaquin Valley. She was an early member of the Mariposa County Pioneer Wagon Train. A working member of the Hornitos Patrons Club and took active part in Enchilada Dinner as she purchased her own chopper, to chop all those onions.

She was preceded in death by her son Gerald (Jerry) L. Pirtle II, and grandson Gerald (Jerry) L. Pirtle III, and Brother Garl L. Eubank. Her daughter Terry Pirtle, of Hornitos, CA, survives Pat. She leaves behind her sisters, Nancy Forehand of Ozona, Texas, Mary Ann Visher of Hornitos, CA., and brother Jim Hopman (Anita) of Cathey's Valley, CA. She will be missed by her grandchildren: Darren Halencak (Amber) of Yuba City, CA., Jason Halencak (Trisha), of Dolores, Colorado, and Amy Scharper (Brandon), of Mariposa, CA. Her eight great grandchildren and one great great grandson. And numerous nieces and nephews.

Pat will be remembered for her generous way, thoughtful spirit and compassionate heart. Auntie Pat will be missed by ALL. She always remarked the Treasures of her Life are her "Family, Good Friends, and of course her beloved menagerie of Animals."

Graveside services will be held Saturday, November 25, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at John Lord Speaker Family Cemetery, 3364 Bear Valley Road, near Hornitos, CA 95325. Following will be a Luncheon gathering to share memories, at the Golden Stag Hall, Hornitos, CA. Remembrances may be sent to the charity of your choice.