Patricia Ann Holden, age 93, passed away on October 26, 2025.
Mom was born on March 23, 1932, to Stanley and Ruth Nicholls in Jamestown, North Dakota. She was the youngest of six children. She was baptized and confirmed in the Ypsilanti Lutheran Church in Ypsilanti, North Dakota. Mom graduated from Jamestown, ND High School. In 1950, she married Gerald (Jerry) Holden. They farmed until moving to Burlington, WA in 1963. They had 5 children. Mom worked 10 years at The Turkey House, then she worked 20 years at Food Services Inc before retiring. Mom was a member of 1st Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon, where she belonged to the prayer shawl group and the quilters group. Mom volunteered at the Burlington Senior Center for 10 years.
Mom was preceded in death by her husband, Father and Mother, 2 brothers and 3 sisters, one son-in-law (Ed) and one daughter-in-law (Cathy). She is survived by 5 children. Debi McGrath, Len Holden, Warren Holden (Shelly), Donna Parrett (Roy), Duane Holden (Rebecca), many grandchildren and great grandchildren, who received her handwritten cards until the end.
Mom loved gardening and was known as “the Plant Lady” by many in the area. Mom took pride in her yard. She worked in it until close to the end, and then she told all of her children what needed to be done. Her beautiful rose garden was constantly admired by people passing by. Mom was a wonderful cook and an amazing baker. You could always find cookies in her freezer!
Mom was very loved.
There will be a graveside service at Hawthorne Lawn, October 30th at 2:00pm, followed by a gathering at Shannon and Johnnys, 1914 S. 15th St, Mount Vernon, WA 98274. Memorials can be made to Hospice of the Northwest, Skagit Regional Cancer Care, Skagit Humane Society or charity of your choice.
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