Carl R Patzwaldt

1917 - 2010

The world lost a beautiful soul this Christmas December 25, 2010 when Carl R. Patzwaldt passed away peacefully at his home in Ellensburg. He was 93 years old and his was a well-lived life.He was born July 14, 1917 in Bayview, WA on Whidbey Island to Max and Lillie Patzwaldt. Carl graduated from Langley high school and went on to attend WSU in Pullman. He was an ardent Cougar fan his whole life. His love of sports, especially football brought him countless hours of joy. He enlisted in the army in Feb. 1942 and was discharged in 1946 with the rank of Warrant Officer.  He served in the ski troops 10th Mountain Division in Colorado. He met his wife-to-be, Osa Raye Samuel at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri.  They were married in Feb. 1945.  Theirs was a wonderful marriage for 62 years. They were once described as being stuck together like "Velcro" because where you saw one, you always saw the other.Carl worked for the Washington State Game Dept. for 30 years. He retired in 1977 as Regional Manager for Region II in Ephrata. After retirement, he moved back to his beloved Whidbey Island.  There he continued to fish, crab, and clam.  He was forever thankful that his job with the Game Department enabled him the opportunity to work outdoors doing what he loved. In 1992 Carl and Raye moved to Ellensburg to be closer to their grandsons.  Not long after that move, Carl was diagnosed with liver cancer and not expected to live.  It was at this time that his youngest daughter and her family moved in with them.  Miraculously, his cancer was treated and he recovered.  Cancer would try numerous times to claim his life, but it was not able to beat his strength and fighting spirit.Carl was a true family man.  He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was extremely well respected by his friends and co-workers.  As many have said "It was a privilege to have known him."  He adored his two daughters and was devoted to them. Someone once commented to his eldest daughter that she had a real "Leave it to Beaver" life.  It was true.His loving, teaching attitude continued with his two grandsons, Max and Gannon, and not surprisingly, to their close friends.  To them, Carl was affectionately known as "Am".  He was a true role model for those fortunate enough to be around him. Carl will be sorely missed by all who knew him, but remembered for his great stories, wise advice, generosity, and wonderful smile. He left his unique and indelible mark on this world, and the world is better for it. He was preceded in death by his wife, Osa Raye, his sister, Tudy Johnson, and his parents.Carl is survived by his two daughters, Rita (Phil) Matthes of Coupeville, WA and Carla (Tim) Maggard at the home in Ellensburg; two Grandsons, Max and Gannon Maggard of Ellensburg; numerous friends & relatives.Carl was laid to rest at Bayview Cemetery.  A memorial service will be held this summer on Whidbey to celebrate Carl's life.  Donations can be made to Paralyzed Veterans of America (www.pva.org). Those wishing to express memories or condolences may do so at www.visserfuneralhome.com.