Our Beloved Mother, Sister, Grandmother, Great-grandmother, Auntie, and Godmother left this earthly life in peace and light on December 10, 2018, at the age of 73. Patricia (Pat) was a dedicated family member, always proud and encouraging to all. A daughter of hard working parents, Pat learned meticulous work ethics in the fields working alongside family members. She graduated from Redwood High School in 1964, where she was active in sports and music arts, and attended COS. She worked for Bailey's Company, Jostens American Year Book, and CIGNA Insurance, giving each many years of employment. In later years Pat was able to travel across the USA as an Insurance Benefits Counselor. Upon retirement she engaged in the art of beadwork, making beautiful medallions, necklaces, and earrings. She was an avid reader and educated herself on many things that caught her interest. As an elder of the Wukchumni Tribe, Pat was instrumental in blessing and giving the children their Indian names, and helping to bring back ceremonies to our people. She will be greatly missed as she travels to the spirit world of our ancestors. Our second diamond in the sky, Pat will be remembered for her beautiful smile, gracefulness, and calming spirit.
Patricia was a dedicated mother to Isabel Vera and husband Doug, Martha Tapleras, Joseph Oliveira Jr. and wife Rachel, and Josephine Oliveira and partner Teung. She was a loving and courageous sister to Ronald, Susan, Judith, Lucinda, Darlene, and Ruth, and niece to Marie Wilcox. Patricia was a devoted grandmother to 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, and a spiritual blessing to her godchildren Maggie Weese, Vincent Vera, Jeremy Tapleras, and her many nieces and nephews. She is proceeded in death by her husband Joseph Oliveira Sr., parents Martha Wilcox and Magdaleno Tapleras, Uncle Filemon Tapleras, and sister Sharon Thomas.
Visitation will be held at 4:00 PM, followed by a Rosary at 6:00 PM on December 17, 2018, at Miller Memorial Chapel. A Mass of Christian faith will be held at 10:00 AM on December 18, 2018, at Holy Family Catholic Church. Tributes and condolences can be made at www.millerchapel.com
Arrangements entrusted to Miller Memorial Chapel Visalia, California (559)732-8371.
Published in Tulare Advance-Register & Visalia Times-Delta on Dec. 15, 2018
