Patricia C. Nakamura

Patricia Colby Nakamura was born Apr 28, 1939. She attended Carthage College, where she earned a degree in English and music. She joined the Peace Corps in 1962, for which she taught English in Ethiopia. Upon returning to the States, Patricia embarked on a teaching career during which she taught English in several schools and mentored under-privileged children in Milwaukee.
She earned her Master's Degree in speech pathology and worked with people with brain injuries, Cerebral Palsy, and others who needed help with talking and swallowing. Patricia later worked for "The Living Church" as music editor and writer. Throughout her life, she worked as a freelance writer for various publications.
Patricia was an accomplished musician, having learned how to play the violin, piano and organ. She played second fiddle for the Columbus (GA) Symphony Orchestra and played organ for Trinity and St. Mary's Episcopal Churches in Columbus. Her voice, too, was a beautiful instrument. She sang for All Saints Cathedral, as well as other churches in which she served.
She was a talented actress. She instilled in her children a love for community theater. Her son is a well known actor in the Milwaukee theater community.
Patricia had an ardent love for cats, the outdoors, the ocean, and books. Her cousin noted that she had a certain fearlessness for trying new things.
She passed away on Aug 26, 2025. She is preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Madelyn Colby, and her younger brother, David Colby.
She is survived by her children Melinda (Terry) Singleton and Jonathan (Laura) Wainwright, and her grandson, Ryan Singleton.
Patricia was a supporter of the DeKoven Center (dekovencenter.org) in Racine, WI and the National Parks Conservation Association ( support.npca.org ). She was a longtime member of All Saints Cathedral ( ascathedral.org ) in Milwaukee, WI. Those wishing to make donations in her name, kindly contact one of these organizations. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Patricia, please visit our Tree Store.