Search by Name

Search by Name

PATRICIA SKANTZE Obituary


  
PATRICIA ANNE SKANTZE  
Her spirit flew up to heaven in the early morning of December 15, 2012, at her home in McLean, VA. Beloved wife of Gen. Lawrence A. Skantze (Ret.); former Vice Chief of Staff for the U.S. Air Force. Pat has three children, Lawrence Michael, P.A. and Vanessa Maria; as well as a brother George Valentine Bowers and numerous nieces; nephews; cousins and dear friends who keenly feel this loss. Born the youngest of ten children to William John and Ellen Elizabeth Bowers, Pat was raised in Birmingham, Alabama. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Speech and Drama from Birmingham Southern College at the age of sixteen.An actress and a dancer, Pat had a notable career as a fashion model on the runway and in print. In the early 1960's she began working in television as a talk show host; her Washington, DC based Women's World with Pat Skantze was one of the first of its kind. Along with her work in television commercials, Pat also enjoyed working in radio as an on-air personality and doing voice over work.In their active duty life, Pat was a vital ally to Larry, planning and staging social events and seminars for military members and foreign dignitaries. With her signature Southern charm and exquisite fashion sense ("my lady of the hats" Larry called her) she made an unforgettable impact on everyone she met.After Larry's retirement, the couple settled in McLean and Pat devoted much of her time to many worthwhile charities and causes, among them; Board of Associates of the National Rehabilitation Hospital; Arts for the Aging (AFTA)- Committee member; Women's Committee of the Washington Ballet-member and past President; Cultural Tourism DC; Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary. A vibrant member of the Capital Speakers Club as well as a past President; Pat served on the Welcome to Washington International Club as member and Diplomatic Liaison.A Mass will be held at Memorial Chapel at Fort Myer, Friday, January 18, 2013 at 2:45 p.m. Interment following in Arlington National Cemetery. Reception at 4:15 p.m. at Ft. Myer Officer's Club.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post from Dec. 18 to Dec. 20, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for PATRICIA SKANTZE

Not sure what to say?





Salvatore Speziale -Aide-De-Camp

December 12, 2022

Two of the most beautiful people in the world. God bless them both.

Salvatore Speziale

December 12, 2019

The kindest and most loving and beautiful lady in the world. It was an honor and a privilege to work for this beautiful family.

SMSGT USAF Retired 850-445-0440

Jerry Strickland

April 5, 2013

Hello Sir - General Skantze, so sorry to hear about Mrs. Skantze. I was just thinking about the both of you and trying to contact you via the Internet. I served with you for 4 years in Wash DC at the Pentagon and Andrews AFB. Thank you for yours and Pat's support of my AF career.

We meet again-still dazzling! @ Vegas Convention: Gen. Yeager & X-1 Exhibition/Tour

Carla Renee

February 12, 2013

After watching, studying & teaching Gen. Skantze to future commanders, Mrs. Skantze was awe-inspiring to this young Lieutenant!

Carla Renee

February 12, 2013

First time meeting the General & Mrs. Skantze, in person

Carla Renee

February 12, 2013

Carla Renee

February 12, 2013

Mrs. Skantze was so gracious & graceful--a true gem & Inspiration! I cherish every second of the moments I spent in her presence.

Andrew Corrigan

January 21, 2013

Mrs. Skantze was, and still is, one of the most wonderful souls I've ever had the chance to me. Whenever I was in her home, visiting her daughter, Vanessa, she always had a bright smile and a warm welcoming. Mrs. Skantze, along with her husband, General Skantze, made me feel comfortable. Mrs. Skantze's golden heart of caring and warmth will never be forgotten. She will be in the heart of every life she has touched.
- Andy Corrigan

Paula and Horacio Verdun

January 18, 2013

We all have been touched by the love and kindness that Pat showered us with, we will most certainly have her in our heart for the rest of our lives. We all are extremely enriched by the experiences that we shared with Pat and will treasure her memory for ever. Our love to all her family, we share in your sorrow and sadness, while we celebrate her life.

January 18, 2013

pat, was a pretty nice wonderful person to hang with i love her when she came to my wedding , she always in my heart and soul, she in peace but her angel will always be in your heart

January 18, 2013

How fortunate we all were to have known Pat Skantze! By quiet example she led us at NRH, and in so many other arenas with exquisite grace, strength and kindness. Just being with her made one feel more spiritual, more glamorous and more loved. She seemed like a lovely flower ever unfolding to reveal depths of charcter and unexpected wisdom. She will always bloom in our hearts.

Sandi and John Birdsong

Julie Van Zetta

January 18, 2013

Pat was the ultimate lady in every way. You smiled just being around her because of her wonderful personality and kind spirit. I will miss you dear friend as well as so many others that loved you.

Marina Oberlander

January 17, 2013

Leo Tostoy once said that there is no death, but love and memory. And Pat will remain with us while we continue to love her and remember her. Let her rest in peace and look at us from above.

Doro Bush Koch

January 17, 2013

Pat was colorful and fun and a pleasure to work with at the National Rehabilitation Hospital. There was no one like her and she will be missed by me, and all who knew her.

Jennifer Sheehy

January 7, 2013

Pat was a wonderful friend on the NRH Board of Associates. She was full of positive energy and will be missed greatly.

Wendy Baynard

January 5, 2013

Pat was truly remarkable and unforgettable from first meeting her at National Rehabilitation Hospital in 1992. I can only echo all the wonderful accolades noted here. My deepest sympathy to Larry and family.

Chris and Gary Harkins

January 4, 2013

Our condolences to the Skantze family. Pat will be greatly missed. I get sad just typing the words. She was a clever, happy, thoughful, beautiful person inside and out. She made everyone around her special. And her devotion to "The General", her family and her charities was an example for all of us.

Julia Casimira Sacasa

January 4, 2013

An extraordinary woman...I treasure our conversations about yoga, art and motherhood and keep all of her notes and letters in one of my grandmother's hat boxes. Beautiful Pat, I shall miss your light-filled smile and laughter and know your love guides us like a shining star.

Mark-Anthony Edwards, Patricia A. Skantze, B Michael, General Larry Skantze

B Michael

January 2, 2013

For me... Pat Skantz was both Muse and Dear Friend. As a Muse... Pat's great panage was of great inspiration to me in my career as a Millinery Designer and later as a Fashion Designer... As a Dear Friend there are so many moments, conversations (that great voice), socials and notes that I will cherish in my memory. Mark-Anthony and I relished the time we spent with both Pat and General Skantz... I can assure you they were all good. In homage to Pat Skantz there will be a draped chair on the front row of our next Couture Show during New York Fashion Week this February. Hats ON to you Dear Pat!!" B Michael & Mark-Anthony Edwards

Patricia A. Skantze wearing b michael America Couture Hat

B Michael

January 2, 2013

Mark-Anthony Edwards, Patricia A. Skantze, B Michael, General Larry Skantze

B Michael

January 2, 2013

Joe & Teri Syslo

December 31, 2012

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her.

December 30, 2012

December 30, 2012

Phoebe Eliopoulos

December 29, 2012

Phoebe Eliopoulos

December 29, 2012

Phoebe Eliopoulos

December 29, 2012

Phoebe Eliopoulos

December 29, 2012

Phoebe Eliopoulos

December 29, 2012

Phoebe Eliopoulos

December 29, 2012

Phoebe Eliopoulos

December 29, 2012

Phoebe Eliopoulos

December 29, 2012

Phoebe Eliopoulos

December 29, 2012

The loss of Pat will be felt so deeply by her extended family, her many friends, and the many charities she supported. I will miss a wonderful, loving and supportive friend, who showered her prayers, wide smile and warm hands on so many. Thank you, Pat, for gracing our lives with your beauty.

at Welcome to Washington Fall Tea

Helga Schwartz

December 24, 2012

From the moment I met Pat in 1998, I knew that she was a very special lady. She never failed to make a kind and uplifting remark or gave a warm smile.

Mariella Trager

December 22, 2012

I will always remember a dear friend with that elegance and wonderful smile..

Susan Wight

December 21, 2012

Pat was so warm and welcoming, encouraging to me when I first joined Capital Speakers, I honor her with a small hat collection, having been encouraged by her to don them. God Bless this dear soul, now gone to be with Him. Susan Wight

Pat & Shahin Charing IEF's 2008 "Eye Ball"

Victoria M Sheffield

December 21, 2012

Pat was a fabulous Co-Chair with Shahin Mafi of the International Eye Foundation's 2008 "Eye Ball" at the Four Seasons. She never ceased to charm everyone she met and was so dedicated to helping wherever she could. Our condolences to Larry and all the family...

Richard Jones

December 21, 2012

Mrs. Skantze will be greatly missed as will her bright smile, her southern accent, and so many endless customs and traits she florished amongst those of us who graced her daily. As a former General Officer's Enlisted Aide at her home on Andrews AFB, she welcomed all of us much like an extended family member.

Janine Tursini

December 21, 2012

Our deepest condolences and with much love to your spirit, Pat, and to General Skantze and the Skantze family: we will dearly miss Pat's warmth and kindness and that gorgeous smile and soul that always spoke a kind word! From all of us at Arts for the Aging.

Jane Klinger

December 21, 2012

Whenever I think of Pat, I think of her smile and the warmth of her hand which she extended to everyone. May her memory be a blessing to her family and all who knew her.

Diane Chase

December 20, 2012

Pat was a fabulous mentor and guided me when my husband Alan and I first became a part of the social scene of Washington DC in 1980. A first class human being who I will greatly miss.
Diane Chase

December 20, 2012

Praying the Lord comforts your heart today and blesses your life with treasured memories of your loved one in the years to come.
With depest Sympathy
Mary Bazargan (Chapter 2- CSC)

Kim Watson

December 20, 2012

Pat was classy, a lady, kind and more importantly a genuine person. I will certainly miss her.. a true role model.

Dan Snyder

December 20, 2012

Pat was a beautiful person on the inside as well as the outside. Janet and I were so lucky to have known the inside because there was a woman of love and compassion for others. She was the life of every party and in the dictionary under first class Pat showed the world what it really means.
We love you Pat and you made a lot of lives better including ours. Dan & Janet Shatz Snyder.

December 20, 2012

Everyone always gravitated towards Pat. She always showed love and made each of us feel very special in her eyes. We will all miss this wonderful lady. Nancy Mains

Lynda Ellis

December 20, 2012

Her spirit and light made the sun look dim. She was a gift to all who were fortunate to know this beautiful spirit.

Sheila Stabile

December 20, 2012

Pat was an inspiration to me from the day I met her. She had a special seat at CSC and was so supportive from the day I met her. I could always look to her for a nod and smile and inspiration. I was fortunate to have some fun social times through the years. She inspired me and has a legacy in which your family should be proud. I am honored and blessed to have known her and experienced her grace.

Svetlana Kim

December 19, 2012

There is no one like Pat. I remember that hat, warm smile, and sparkling eyes. I am sending deepest sympathy to her family and friends. May your beautiful memories comfort you and give strenght.

Sandy Taylor

December 19, 2012

We will miss Pat's kindness, generosity and energy. She was a vibrant member of our community, and a friend to all of us.

December 19, 2012

She will be remembered for her warmth as well as for her hats! A wonderful lady, will be missed by many.
Nancy Keefe

Margaret and Dan Dudas

December 19, 2012

We have so many beautiful memories of Pat's love, kindness, graciousness and style. She was such a wonderful, supportive and dear friend who never failed to send a caring note or a thank you. It is hard to imagine the many social and philanthropic groups Pat supported without her. She will be missed. Our sincere condolences and prayers to the family.

Nancy Glenn Hansen

December 19, 2012

...With loving and endless gratitude, I tip my hat to our precious Pat who always expressed elegance and unconditional love. Hester Provensen, my family and I are the happy beneficiaries of her unstoppable, loving kindness.

We bid a fond farewell to Pat and send our prayers to Larry and their family, knowing that our Father Mother God...Love itself...will comfort and sustain each of them.

The light of the Christ which shone through Pat will never be extinguished...it will continue to shine ever so brightly!

"God Bless!" Lovingly, Nancy et al

December 19, 2012

Pat was a gracious lady and a friend to all who met her She will be missed.

Judy & Ken Johnson

Kristina Bouweiri

December 19, 2012

So sad to hear this news. Pat was one of the most beautiful and friendly women in Capital Speakers. It won't be the same without her elegance and presense. I have so many beautiful pictures of her over the years. I will try and post them. My warmest regards to family. She is in my thoughts and prayers!

Donna Ritter

December 19, 2012

Other than my Capital Speakers Sponsor, Pat was the first lady to introduce herself to me at a CSC event. She was elegantly adorned in every way. I KNEW I would enjoy whatever DC event I attended when I noticed the beautiful "Pat-in-the-hat" in the audience. I have missed her presence this fall. And now it seems we will all miss her and her infectious smile for many seasons to come. So we'll just have to pull ourselves up, dust ourselves off, extend the first warm welcome to newcomers, dress more elegantly, and smile more often... in honor and remembrance of the beautiful Pat who made this world a better place. And to her beloved family and lifelong friends, may God hold you in the palm of His hands.

December 19, 2012

I will always miss Pat's beautiful smile and welcoming arms as well as the amazing person she was to all of us. Please keep smiling down on us.
Lorraine Douglas

December 19, 2012

Our sincere condolences to the family. May you find comfort from your precious memories. The Bible gives us comfort when it assures us that soon all causes of suffering will end and mankind can enjoy life forever in perfect health. Our prayers are with you all.

Rev. Herman Nelson (Ret. AF)

December 19, 2012

I was touched to learn of the passing of your beautiful wife. Fond memories of you as my boss and the lovely spirit of your wife I will forever hold. I can share with you the same loss, 26 Nov.2012 of my bride of 49 years. God be with you and your family in the coming days and know you have my deepest condolences & prayers for peace.

Patricia Mertz

December 18, 2012

To meet Pat was to love Pat, and everyone always did. She was a very special and unique soul in this world, and now in heaven, too. As Pat would always say at the end of every conversation.... "God Bless"... God Bless you, dear Pat.
Richard and Patricia Mertz

Sal Speziale

December 18, 2012

Gina and Sal miss you.

Deb and Steve Push

December 18, 2012

The level of elegance, charm and spirituality, in one of the most beautiful women (in and out) I have ever known will be a part of me forever. Her thoughtfulness is unmatched. What a loss for all of us, whether she was family or friend, our hearts are forever imprinted with the grace of Pat. We will miss you Pat! You will just have to watch over all of us, from a better place-heaven!

Bessie Zarceño-Heymann

December 18, 2012

Our heartfelt condolences. Words fail to express our sadness at the death of BEUTIFUL Mrs.Skantz. May she be in the hands of GOD!

Gerri Ferguson

December 18, 2012

Pat was a role model for me. From the moment I met her at a CARE invitation signing 10+ years ago (rocking a sequined baseball cap) she was my idol of graciousness and style. She sponsored me in CSC and always asked about my family and supported my charitable causes. I was shocked to hear of her passing and will think of her often and miss her always.

December 18, 2012

Pure goodness, kindness, caring, grace, beauty, brilliance,and heart...an angel of a woman on earth, and now Heaven is a brighter and better place because she is there. God's blessings to Pat and Larry Skantze for all the blessings they have given to so many thousands of people. We love you, John and Suzanne Piazza

John Hopper

December 18, 2012

As a life long supporter of our Airmen and the Air Force Aid Society, she will be sorely missed!....Lt Gen (Ret) John Hopper//AFAS/CEO

Mary-Frances Wain

December 18, 2012

Hats off to a one of a kind.
In sympathy,

April Riccio

December 18, 2012

How very sad for the world that we have lost such a beacon of light - Pat was a star shining brightly in everyone's life she touched. And those hats! And her elegance and dedication to make this world a better place. I had the distinct honor of producing the Salvation Army Show whenever Pat chaired it. One year I decided to surprise her, and the set was hat racks. I wish I could still have the pleasure of seeing her - a vision of beauty will remain in my heart forever. I will miss Pat more than words can describe. I extend my heartfelt condolences to Pat's lovely family.

Carol Lowe

December 18, 2012

I met Pat at a gathering hosted by the Trudeau's. With all of the dignitaries in the room, Pat Skantze outshone every one... including Nancy Reagan. That's saying something! Every socialite in D.C. should wear a hat in tribute to her. She will be missed.

monika petter

December 18, 2012

I am experiencing a real feeling of loss. She was my dear friend. Such a lovely, loving, inspirational, wonderful woman.

Nan Moring

December 18, 2012

I had the pleasure of meeting Pat through the Capital Speakers Club. She was an inspiration.

Salvatore Speziale

December 18, 2012

In Loving Memory of the best lady we knew Pat Skantze. Gina and Sal Speziale will love you and miss you always.

Kathie Truitt

December 18, 2012

I am at a loss for words. She was such a beacon of light in this community. The love and compassion she felt in her heart for every single human being regardless of their status or station in life was impalpable. I feel so honored to have had her in my life. I will miss her forever.

December 18, 2012

Pat's loving spirit soars. The Washington Ballet's extended family has lost a caring friend, devoted balletomane and irreplaceable elegance.
Sylvia de Leon

December 18, 2012

There has never been, nor will there ever be another like Pat. She was a living landmark. There isn't a ballroom in Washington that doesn't echo with her laughter or a worthwhile cause that (somewhere) doesn't bear her name. Our families shared an inextricable bond; and while I can think of a million and one words that describe our beloved Pat - the one that holds most true is FRIEND. --- Patricia Trudeau

Showing 1 - 74 of 74 results

Make a Donation
in PATRICIA SKANTZE's name

Memorial Events
for PATRICIA SKANTZE

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support PATRICIA's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor PATRICIA SKANTZE's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more