Ulrich and Patricia Wahli

Ulrich Wahli Obituary

Ulrich and Patricia Wahli, of Campbell, were found dead July 4 in the Utah wilderness, apparently having been overcome by heat while hiking.

Published by Mercury News from Jul. 5 to Aug. 4, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Ulrich Wahli

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75 Entries

My belated condolences to Ueli's and Patti's families.
This morning a colleague and I were comparing what we were doing in 1994. I worked on a project with Ueli in 1994 and it was my first work trip overseas to San Jose.

I remember his support and his cheeky humour: I wanted to say hello to Ueli...

Mark Leung

Work

January 24, 2022

My (very late) condolences to the Wahli family. I worked with him at the Santa Teresa Lab of IBM in the mid-90s....he was so gracious, kind, and professional.....and a great computer guy! I came across a RedBook, and was hoping to have a nostalgic chat....now I will wait until I see him again in Heaven.

Kirk Davis

Work

January 2, 2022

Bless them & keep them

The Departed's Wish for You All

When I die if you need to weep
Cry for your brother or sister
Walking the street beside you.
And when you need me
Put your arms around anyone
And give them what you need to give me.

I want to leave you something -
Something better than words or sounds

Look for me in the people I've left behind
Your family, a shop - keeper, a stranger,
And if you cannot give me away,
At least let me live in your eyes
And not merely in your mind

You can love me most by being the best person you can be, and
Know that I am free.

Love doesn't die, people do.
So when all that is left of me is love -
Give me way.
There will always be more than enough.

Clarence & Joi

May 4, 2015

Liebe Barbara
Aufrichtige Anteilnahme für Hinschied Deines daddy
Ueli, welcher zusammen mit Patty auf so tragische weise von uns gegangen ist.

Zdenka Zosso

August 19, 2013

I had Ueli as a colleague and I had the privilege to be invited by them at their home in Campbell ain early '90.. I was absolutely shocked by y
this unbeliavable, horrible news. May they rest in peace

Marcello Ramella

August 11, 2013

It is really hard to express our feelings when we heard that Ueli and Patty had died. Mostly it is sadness.

In spring of 88 Ueli asked me to become his best man in the upcoming wedding with Patty. I immediately accepted, not knowing that the best man in the US has not only to hand over the rings but also to give a speech in front of family and friends. I got some the advise that the speech has to express the luck of the groom to marry this wonderful bride and somehow I managed to get that through.

And I think Ueli was really lucky to find Patty as the person who has given him among other things also emotional stability and strength. On the other side he has given her the international view of the world which she enjoyed.

The marriage lasted for almost 25 years, it should have been longer. We will always keep them in our memory. And our thoughts are with Barbara and Brenna.

Peter and Frauke Richter

July 29, 2013

Condolences to the family of Ueli and Patty. So sorry to hear of their passing. Uehli was a special person with great talent and dedication at IBM.

Tom Eccles

July 28, 2013

I didn't know either one of them but I am very saddened to hear of their passing. I pray for any children they may have.

Linda Vasquez

July 24, 2013

I met Patty through her Daughter Brenna. Patty was always "Mom" to everyone at school and I was very glad to see her have all the fun she could with a very loving person. They will both be missed. I believe they are still having the time of their lives still together.

Janel & Peter Rainbolt

July 22, 2013

We are shocked and so sorry to hear that Ueli & Patty died in a tragic and unexpected way.

I worked with Ueli at the ITSO from 1994 – 1996 and have always admired him for being a colleague who had so many close contacts all over the world and who traveled internationally to so many countries.

We remember sitting in their cactus garden while we fired questions at them about life in San Jose. They were very helpful and instrumental in our choices of where to live, schools, etc.

Once Lou Gerstner's secretary called me for help on FOILS5 because my name was the first on the list in the ITSO department and Ueli was not reachable at the moment. Lou had to give an annual investor relations presentation and the secretary ran into a problem with FOILS5. I ran around the building and luckily found Ueli who immediately could resolve the problem and saved Lou's presentation. He was the hero of the day.

We were looking forward to seeing Ueli and Patty again at next year's ITSO reunion. We thank them for initiating the event. They will both be sorely missed. The only bit of consolation to this tragic story is that Ueli and Patti died while doing something they loved to do.

Our hearts go out to their family.

Thomas & Jill Bilfinger

July 21, 2013

Ueli and Patty were my very best friends as they always wrote on their cards. Ueli is the One who believed in me and made my life just happyness in US with my daughter. I shared with him in the plane coming back from Raleigh i his newborn love for Patty and will never forget our meeting in San Jose airport.
They helped my daughter Chrystelle, designer as Patty, when I came back to France and will never forget their Love for all their Friends.
We shared so many golden moments in Galgon (France) with my family and in their house in Campbell. They were JOY and HAPPYNESS and I hope that, from where they are, they will give you, Brenda and Barbara, the strength to go on for your family and kids.

Nathalie MUSQUIN

July 21, 2013

We were shocked and deeply saddened by the news about Ueli and Patty and their fateful trek to The Wave on July 3. So many thoughts and memories washed over us those first few days! We bought a small Toblerone bar and as we shared tastes of it we recalled so many social times and work experiences. We remember the gigantic Toblerone bar that Ueli's sister brought from Switzerland for their wedding. There are so many memories of all the times shared together with Ueli and Patty.

I think we met Ueli at the ITSC Palo Alto in spring 1976. Although he went back & forth between Zurich and the Bay area more than once (with the Audi), it has always seemed that he was a fixture of that ITSC – one of the steady ‘rocks' that helped us residents and assignees make it through our work terms. I'm sure we all wondered how Ueli always managed to get so much accomplished, even though his office was usually right in the middle of the comings and goings of the Center. Ken Preshaw recently offered a most likely reason, that Ueli worked smart. He was able to focus deeply on the task at hand. He knew so much and shared that knowledge. So many of us IBMers learned and used FOILS5 (and FOILS4, etc.).

We lived in San Jose in the mid-80s and the ‘international' part of the ITSO was vibrant. Ueli, of course, participated in the monthly dinner parties where we shared great food and friendship amongst residents, assignees and permanent ITS friends. When Ueli traveled for workshops, he had a knack for finding and scheduling fascinating side trips. His stories were amazing. In the last 20+ years, Ueli made several teaching trips to Toronto and Patty accompanied him a couple of times. We visited and usually scheduled a dinner to catch up with family and friends in common. Four years ago, Ueli & Jim spent a fabulous full day in Niagara wine country.

We left San Jose mid-summer 1988 but Jim was back on business at the time of Ueli & Patty's wedding in September. It was grand to see them together, always taking pride in each others' accomplishments, bringing together a wonderful home which they delighted in sharing with others. We treasure so many rich memories. Our sincere condolences to Barbara, Brenna and family.

Jim and Karen Doak

July 20, 2013

Lighting a candle for you two on the night before a gathering to celebrate memories of you. You will be in my prayers and memory forever.

Chris McCarthy

July 20, 2013

Ueli and I worked together at IBM since 1984. I can still remember the morning that Ueli came into my office with a big grin on his face and told me that he had met someone very special the night before - Patty.

What admiration I have for both Patty and Ueli in how they embraced a world of friends and always made one feel unique and special at the many parties that they hosted.

Ueli taught me how to make those wonderful dried persimmons that were often displayed at their parties and each season made sure I received part of the harvest from their bountiful persimmon tree. In turn, Patty always enjoyed the special plums from our home that she used to make her wonderful plum tarts. The annual making of lemocello with Patty was always a kick, plus Patty's many shared and exciting receipes will remain treasured.

More recently, our sharing the planning of the 2014 ITSO Reunion makes me feel at a lost in knowing they are no longer here. They were both so excited about this upcoming event and I know they will still be part of it in a spiritual way - neither one would miss it.

Thank you for your friendship and many shared good times Ueli and Patty.

Mary Comianos, San Jose, California

July 19, 2013

It was so terribly sad to get the tragic news about our dear friends since 25 years. Chock, tears, grief and so hard to comprehend!
Last time we met Ueli and Patty was when they visited us in 2008. We took them on a trip with our boat in Stockholm and had so much fun together. We were so happy that they wanted to come and see us.
We share the grief together with their friends all over the world. Our deepest love and warmest thoughts goes to Ueli and Patty's family.

Hans and Monica Nordberg

July 17, 2013

I have just heard of the sad news and can't believe what has happened.
I worked with Ueli on an IBM Redbook many years ago and my wife and I enjoyed the hospitality of Ueli and Patty at that time.
Ueli was a great guy to work with and I remember with fondness him recounting all his previous travel adventures and his future plans.

Please accept my sincere condolences.

Brian Hainey

July 17, 2013

What a tragedy. It is unbelievable that two people so full of life are gone. I will forever remember Pattys warm smile and vibrant personality.

Dale and Lee Grant

July 15, 2013

So sad for them and their families. I was working for patty when she met Ueli and then was at their wedding. Glad their zest for life was continued to the end. May they rest in peace forever together.

July 14, 2013

A terrible tragedy. Patti was a classmate at St. Clare's Grammar School and Notre Dame High School and I enjoyed seeing her at our reunion gatherings. My sympathy to their family.

Joan Schwalbe

July 13, 2013

Ueli and Patty lived a life of overachievement and understatement. They were both larger than life in their endeavors, professional and personal. I cannot believe that they are gone, not because they did not think that they were mortal, but because it is not possible to think of life without them. They will remain in our memories, and Ueli will always be present at our pool games.

John, Gail Brunemeier

July 12, 2013

After one week I still cannot believe what I have to read.
I was fortunate to have Ueli as a fine colleague and I am so fond to also have met Patty.
My greatest sympathy to the families of Ueli and Patty

Heiner Rauschenbusch

July 12, 2013

I had the honor to work with Ueli only remotely and only for a short time, but I was impressed by his kindness and dedication. My most sincere condoleances to Ueli and Patty's family and friends.

Lara Ziosi

July 12, 2013

I am stunned to hear this sad news this morning. You will be missed so very much. I will think of you both every time I go to Jazzercise class in the morning. RIP.

Tan Nguyen

July 11, 2013

Liebi Patty, liebe Ueli

Mit eu han ich zwei liebi Fründe verlore. Ich erinnere mi gern zrugg a die gueti Zyt, won ich uf ene IBM Residency in San Jose gsi bi. Ich bi unglaublich truurig und wünsche eure Famillie viel Kraft. En stiller Adacht,
Marco Rohr

Marco Rohr

July 11, 2013

God Bless Barbara Whali and her sister, my sincere condolances too you both.

July 11, 2013

We did not personally know Ulrich and Patricia.

However, my family and I were present during the Wave access lottery on that fateful Tuesday morning in Kanab, UT - when we witnessed their happiness at getting their number picked from the 70 or so persons present. They were so excited about winning and we were happy for them.

It was utterly a shock when days later, we learned of the passing of an elderly couple on the route to the Wave.

Our most sincere condolences are with their family and many friends.

Martin Lemieux

July 11, 2013

I light a candle in memory of a couple who knew how to enjoy life. May those who remember and loved them keep their zest for life alive. My heart feels the loss. My condolences.

Dale Morris

July 11, 2013

There are very few people in the world like you, Uehli and Patty. Thank you for your generous friendship. Thank you for showing this rookie how to really travel. Thank you for the people and places you shared. Thank you for welcoming us into your home where we learned about travel, food, wine, decorating, cactus gardening, board games, Swiss Raclette on New Years Eve, and so much more. I especially love your tradition of spending the week between Christmas and New Years creating your photo album for the closing year. Those albums must have grown exponentially over the years.

The one thing I cannot imagine is one of You without the Other. You will always be remembered with a smile, a story, and then a toast. Rest in Peace my Friends.
Anne Zehren - Las Vegas

July 10, 2013

I still can't believe that they are gone. I had just talked to Patty the day before they left for Santa Fe. We went to morning Jazzercise classes together and they were such a nice couple. My condolences to their family and close friends. May they both RIP.

Tami Gallagher

July 10, 2013

I first met Pat in the early 90's when I joined BOMA. She and Ueli were gracious hosts and outstanding people. They will be missed and remembered. Love and best thoughts to their family!

Sharon Fredlund

July 10, 2013

I have been in shock for many days since reading of their tragic and senseless deaths. I was an office mate with Patty for over 20 years and knew her well. No one had a bigger heart and zest for life than she did. We will all miss both of them.

Barbara Jacobs

July 10, 2013

Barbara and Brenna, it is too difficult to write in words how I miss your dad/mom. Ueli and Patty, we are so blessed to have known you and all the memories will live on forever. Thankyou for all funny memories from the 1986 residency, thankyou for all the parties and cooking and recipes and talking and hugging and for always being there at our art shows and events. Love you always.

Britta o Miho

July 10, 2013

How sad. I can not believe such a bad news. I met Ueli when I was 25. He was an instructor of a class and I was a class manager in Japan. Since then we are good friends. I am very proud of having such nice friends.Ueli and Patty, thank you and please have a peaceful time in the heaven.
Chikako Inami (Japan)

July 9, 2013

Ueli and Patti's garden http://www.wahlichusa.com/cactus/#

July 9, 2013

I am so sorry to hear about Pat and Ueli. I had the pleasure of working with Pat on the BOMA SV Share Your Holiday for many years. She was a caring and thoughtful person. I remember her opening her home to the committee for a celebratory dinner. She was the most gracious host. My deepest condolences to their family and close friends.

Stacie Callaghan

July 9, 2013

How sad and what a tragedy.
I'm so proud and thankful that I had the chance to got to
know such warm-hearted and adorable people.
Patty and Ueli, I will miss you and will never forget you...

Josef Schneider

July 9, 2013

Ueli and Patti - I will deeply miss you. I can't stop thinking about you, the memories of our trips together, your travel stories, the many years of common professional career. It has been a privilege to know both of you.

Michele Chilanti

July 9, 2013

While I am deeply saddened to hear of their passing it brings a smile to my face to think about times together. Memories live forever.

Dave Viguers

July 9, 2013

We are devastated and deeply saddened by the tragic death of Ueli and Patty.

Ueli was a good friend and colleauge who I had the pleassure of working very closely with for a couple of years both in San Jose and on several business trips around the world where we explored the local life and venues together.

Ueli and Patty welcomed us and our family into their lives and their home. They were our center of gravity in Silicon Valley and they will be deeply missed.

Our thoughts are with their close friends and families.

Leif and Elna Trulsson

July 9, 2013

I didn't know them well, but they were avid Jazzercisers and their presence was felt all around them. They will be greatly missed by their fellow classmates. After reading all the entries, I realize it was my loss not to have known them better.

Jan Foss

July 8, 2013

Ueli made a lifelong impression for his zest for life, adventurousness and competence. May they rest in peace after a full and rich life.

Attila Fogarasi

July 8, 2013

At work, Ueli was a mentor and good friend for close to 25 years. In life, Ueli and Patty became one of the strongest and most important set of friends we've had.

Ueli and Patty opened up their home and their lives to us, like they did with so many. We felt like part of their family; we knew the rules at Thanksgiving (what parts were spoken for), and enjoyed being part of their many celebrations.

They shared their joy for life with so many people around the world, and could easily find a friend close by on any trip they took anywhere on the planet. And when you visited them, they treated you like royalty.

They excelled at family, fun, travel, their friendships, and their careers. They were unbelievably generous with their time, their wine, and their love of good food and good fun.

Our hearts go out to their extended family, as well as to all those close friends who are in shock at this sudden loss. Many things hurt, this really hurts. You will be forever in our thoughts.

Pat and Chris McCarthy

July 8, 2013

When Pat and Ueli got married, it was a match made in heaven. They celebrated life every day. They explored the world together. They enjoyed people and people enjoyed them. They truly lived until they died. I will remember them forever.

Kim Sterling

July 8, 2013

I just heard the news and was so shocked. There were plans for a reunion next year and they were in the middle of it. So sorry that we won't get to see them. We so enjoyed them when we worked together. Heartfelt sorrow and prayers of comfort for their family

Sally Montera

July 8, 2013

Ueli and Patti I can't even express my grief. The time I spent on the redbook residency with you in 2006 was the best time of my life. I am going to miss coming out to San Jose and having dinner with the two of you. I am so glad I got to know both of you.

Laura Heritage

July 8, 2013

Sang with Patti at West valley Chorale for many years. Enjoyed WV European trips with her. Sang with group at their wedding and only good thing about this is they were together to the end. Great couple! Helen

Helen

July 7, 2013

We are so sorry to have lost such dear friends and a former colleague of many years. We will miss them and their wonderful joie de vivre.

Michel and Louise Quenon

July 7, 2013

During the time I worked with Ueli, I learnt to appreciate him, his personality, and his knowledge. My sympathy to his and Patty's families. Ueli and Patty loved the desert and that is where they ended their journey.

Hans J Ollmert

July 7, 2013

This is so very sad. Though I only knew Ueli a short time, I found him to be a very interesting, dynamic, powerful person. I will miss getting to know him better.

Erik WIedenman

July 7, 2013

So sad that the world has lost such a great couple.

Ken Preshaw

July 7, 2013

Ueli and Patty are one of those rare couples you meet in life that leave a life-long impression. One of peace, kindness and compassion towards all others they encounter. Ueli always approached his thoughts with complete calm and logic and with a Swiss sense of humour. Patty was the perfect match to his personality, a couple that complimented each other. The world has lost two inspirational humans. But their kindness remains with all of us in our hearts and minds. May they rest in peace on their onward journey.

Paul Kenny

July 6, 2013

Our deepest sympathy to the family of Ueli and Patti.How they will be missed.This has saddened so many hearts.Love

Anne and Paolo

July 6, 2013

I am so sad to lose two good friends I have know for decades. They were so full of energy and life and will be sorely missed.

Colin White

July 6, 2013

May they rest in peace.

July 6, 2013

Our condolences to Patti and Ulrich's families. They'll be missed by us. Carole Shaver
So much life, so much courage!

July 6, 2013

My heart breaks for this couple and their loving family. How unbelievably sad.

July 6, 2013

So sad - my deepest condolences to the family. Gods speed. May the family find comfort in knowing they were together to the end.

Donna Inma-Brown

July 6, 2013

Very saddened to hear about Pat and Ueli. I was in West Valley Masterworks Chorale with Pat, traveled to Europe on choir trip and attended their wedding.

Kathy Buchanan

July 6, 2013

I am stunned to learn of the tragic deaths of Ueli and Patty. Their zest for life was an inspiration. My condolences to their families. They will be missed by all who knew them.

Jeanne Torre

July 6, 2013

Our deepest sympathy to the family of Ueli and Patty. We had the pleasure of knowing them for more than 20 years and we are very sad about this tragedy..

Babette and Klaus Haeusser

July 6, 2013

I am so very saddened by Patty and Ueli's tragic and untimely deaths. I was out with Patty the night she met her Prince Charming, Ueli. My heart goes out to their families and friends. They were truly a loving and caring couple. They will deeply be missed by everyone who knew them.

Sandy Prebil-Logan

July 6, 2013

A sad loss. Patty was a classmate at St Clare's and Notre Dame.

Judy Fitzgerald

July 6, 2013

I am sure they are resting in peace in God's hand after such a tragedy. My sympathy to the family.
God Bless Them

Silvio Podcameni

July 6, 2013

anonymous

July 6, 2013

i am so sorry to hear from the tragic deaths of Ueli and Patty. It is very sad and i will miss them.
My Sympathy to their Family

Jutta Becker

July 6, 2013

i am so sorry to hear from the tragic deaths of Ueli and Patty. It is very sad and i will miss them.
My Sympathy to theyr family
Jutta Becker Böblingen-Germany

July 6, 2013

I was shocked and very sad to read this news clipping. I have know Patty for 40 years. My deepest condolences to their family.

Carol Cummings

July 6, 2013

my sympathy to the family from Patty and Ueli. What a tragedy, and we had so nice days together in May in Europe. I am shoked

Irmgard Stelkens

July 6, 2013

I am so sorry to learn of this tragic passing of Ulrich and Patty.
They were very special friends to so many. We will miss you both. My prayers are for the family and all their friends.
Donna Wojtkowski

July 5, 2013

Patty and Ueli were very special people. They will be missed terribly by all who knew them. I especially will miss Patty's wonderful laugh and will always remember the fun time we had in Paris!

Jean Hargrove

July 5, 2013

I am so sorry to hear of the tragic deaths of Ueli and Patty. My sympathy to their family and friends. They will be greatly missed.

Sr. Donna Gribschaw

July 5, 2013

Shock -- they lived life to its fullest and are greatly missed by all fortunate enough to have known them.

Carol Watts

July 5, 2013

I am so saddened to learn of this devastating tragedy. Patty and Ueli were a very special couple and will be missed by many.

Sandi Conniff

July 5, 2013

Very Sad.. Rest in Peace

July 5, 2013

Shock doesn't begin to cover it. Patty and Ueli will be greatly missed.

Melody Walsh

July 5, 2013

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