Patricia Ann Dowdle Otten

Patricia Ann Dowdle Otten a lifelong Tucson resident, died August 14, 2006 of leiomyosarcoma, an extremely rare form of cancer. Pat attended St. John's Elementary and Salpointe High School, graduating in 1960. Her attendance at the University of Arizona was interrupted by her marriage to Joseph Otten in 1962, but she soon returned to school and completed both bachelor's and master's degrees even though she was raising a family that grew to include seven children. For many years Pat taught at the UA in the Norton School of Family and Consumer Sciences. Her courses included textiles, pattern designing, tailoring and her specialty, clothing modified for the disabled. She was an active member of the Council of Alumni and Friends of the Norton School, where she held several offices and served as president in 2001-2003. In 1994, her ongoing support of the University earned her the UA Alumni Association Slonaker Award. A few years after the death of her husband Joe, Pat opened Image By Design Studio, where she continued to demonstrate her amazing skill in designing and creating beautiful custom-made clothing for her loyal clients. Pat was not only bright, talented and capable but unselfishly, she gave of her time, energy, skills and devotion to so many others. Her lovely nature, optimism and smiling acceptance of whatever difficulties came her way made her a role model for all who knew her. She leaves a wide circle of grieving friends and her loving family, including Paul Massey, her partner for 24 years. Also surviving her are mother, Jane Dowdle; sisters, Chris White, Meg Hudson, Susie Maish and brother, Andrew Dowdle. Pat's children include, James Otten, Roni Michael, Jane Otten, Michael Otten, Mary Otten Mehus, John Otten and her grandchildren are Dan Otten, Lorianne Cochran, Brian Otten, Athena Pope, Steven and Curtis Otten, Bailey, Emma and Parker Mehus. Son Jerome Otten and grandson, Matthew Otten preceded her in death. A Rosary will be recited at ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel at 8090 N. Northern Ave (at Magee) on Thursday, August 17 at 7:00 p.m. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Odilia Catholic Church, 7570 N. Paseo Del Norte on Friday, August 18 at 11:00 a.m. and burial will follow at Holy Hope Cemetery.