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BORN
1953
DIED
2020
Patricia Fox Obituary
Patricia "Patti" Olson Fox, mother, artist and teacher, died on July 15, 2020, at the age of 67.
Born in Chicago, Patti was a longtime resident of San Diego, starting at La Jolla High in 1970. She remained proud of her Midwestern roots, visiting her family there often, and continuing to call soda "pop" until the end.
Patti, an alumni of San Diego State University, began her career in the sciences, working as a genetic researcher. She also pursued a Master's in social work, before eventually becoming an artist and educator.
Patti took the work of being a mother seriously: leading the Girl Scout troop, attending all games and meets as a soccer/baseball/swim mom, and hosting her son and daughter's friends at her home through their college years and beyond. She was happiest feeding and chatting with the young people who could often be found sitting around her dining room table or on her big couch.
Outside of her two children, and her dogs and granddogs, Patti's great love was making art and encouraging others to create. Her work hangs in the houses of family and friends, and the young people she mentored continue to thrive in creative industries across the country. "The Fox Collaborative" lives on in them.
Patti loved water of any kind - pools, lakes, and of course, the Pacific Ocean. Until the end of her life she was an avid water skier and swimmer. She proudly boasted of swimming laps until days before her children were born, creating her two "water babies".
Patti possessed boundless energy and a big heart. She had no qualms about saying what she thought. Patti would talk to anyone, and was quick to make friends. People often said Patti reached out to them at their lowest moments, and helped pull them back with her empathy and generosity. She believed in the power of children, and giving them the best chance to shape a better future for themselves and the world.
Patti commonly referred to the "white light" she put around the people she loved the most. We are certain her soul will continue to cover us in light.
Patti is survived by her son, Allen Arthur Fox, daughter, Carolyn Patricia Fox, son-in-law, Dusty Pate, sister, Karen Butler, sister, Judith Olson, sister, Kay Tilles and brother-in-law, Dennis Tilles.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Olive Branch for Children https://www.theolivebranchforchildren.org/ or 4Ocean at 4ocean.com. Details on a memorial will be announced at a later date when Patti's loved ones can safely gather.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Patricia Fox
fred marinello
July 15, 2025
thanks for the memories.........
Judy
July 15, 2023
Thank you Fred !
PATRICK Ellis
July 15, 2023
Miss her. She was a wonderful person and a good friend.
Judy
July 15, 2023
On this third Anniversary of Patti's transition, A brief Memorial to Patti remains on YouTube to remind us of Patti's Love, Resilience, Creativity, Humanity, and ability to navigate through life's challenges while loving and showing humanity to so many. PATTI, WE LOVE YOU SO DEEPLY.
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fred marinello
July 15, 2023
fred marinello
July 15, 2023
fred marinello
July 16, 2021
For Art Sake.... Again.
you are missed.
Judy Olson
July 15, 2021
Judy Olson
July 15, 2021
Love and Blessings. Judy
Judith Olson
May 16, 2021
Gregory and Mary,
I was just notified of your posts to Patti's Memory and your acknowledgment of this special lady and her ability to navigate so many of life's challenges. It will soon be a year since she left and your kind words are appreciated and allows the grief to be a bit less. Blessings to Both of You, Gregory and Mary.
Gregory May
May 15, 2021
I used to walk Patti's dogs, Munchkin & Snowy back in 2015 - 2017. She was always nice and supportive person and a good listener. I knew she was remodeling the house recently, and noticed it almost finished, then I noticed them redoing it completely different again. I had a 'feeling' something was wrong. It's shocking to learn that she had passed. Seems untimely to me. Definitely, way too young to go. She brought me a little gift from her trip to Peru, and I'll always remember Patti when I see it.
Mary Grady
January 7, 2021
I knew Patti when we were in high school at Maine East in Park Ridge Illinois. We were best friends and shared similar family situations. The only difference, I was the oldest of 5 siblings and she was the youngest. Pat and I were pretty inseparable and had the best of times within the worst of times. I took Pat to get her drivers license and that was a very happy day celebrated by all my siblings because she was quite anxious about the test. My sister still has the POW bracelet we sold to raise money and bring Pat's brother-in-law home.
I lost touch with Pat during college and reconnected just a few years ago because my brother met her nephew and asked if he had a "Pat Olson" in his family. I emailed Patti and we were thrilled to be reconnected. I became familiar with the work of the Fox Collaborative and loved all of her Facebook posts filled with love, happiness and joy for everything in her life, especially her children and her dogs.
When Pat moved to California I was heartbroken. In the last few years I got the chance to see how that move gave her the resources to do all she dreamed possible for her life. Patti was remarkable and her love, intelligence, compassion and courage inspired everyone she touched and will live on through them. I feel like I just found her and now I've lost her again. My sincere condolences to her family and cherished friends.
Judy
October 2, 2020
A Tribute to Patti can be found in this 4.30 minute YouTube Memorial. Blessings
https://youtu.be/FAPzZF_RyPo
Christy
August 16, 2020
Patti was someone who is very important to me. The loss has been so great, so profound, that I haven't really spoken about it. I literally couldn't say the words until last week actually. Patti is gone. So sudden, and so unexpected.
Patti was an amazingly accomplished woman, an artist, an author, a scientist, and a mother, who had a heart the size of Texas.
Ever since it's publication, her first book has sat prominently in my living room. She had just finished her second book when Covid hit, and sadly I wasn't able to see her. With the current state of things, a memorial has been postponed indefinitely.
Recently, her co-author hand delivered me her second book. Somehow that has helped immensely (thank you so very much, once again Jan). If it weren't for Covid I would have seen her months ago and gotten my copy myself. But it was not to be, and I'm shattered.
Thank you Patti for all of your love, your support, for reminding me that perfect is a joke, for all of the beautiful things you've given me, your talent was immeasurable. Thank you for helping me to appreciate the beauty that is all around me. Thank you for being you. Thank you for loving me so completely and unconditionally. Thank you for always being my biggest fan. You meant the world to me, and I hope you knew that.
My heart is broken. I'm going to miss you more than words can say. I love you.
Christy
August 16, 2020
Patti was someone who is very important to me. The loss has been so great, so profound, that I haven't really spoken about it. I literally couldn't say the words until last week actually. Patti is gone. So sudden, and so unexpected.
Patti was an amazingly accomplished woman, an artist, an author, a scientist, and a mother, who had a heart the size of Texas.
Ever since it's publication, her first book has sat prominently in my living room. She had just finished her second book when Covid hit, and sadly I wasn't able to see her. With the current state of things, a memorial has been postponed indefinitely.
Recently, her co-author hand delivered me her second book. Somehow that has helped immensely (thank you so very much, once again Jan). If it weren't for Covid I would have seen her months ago and gotten my copy myself. But it was not to be, and I'm shattered.
Thank you Patti for all of your love, your support, for reminding me that perfect is a joke, for all of the beautiful things you've given me, your talent was immeasurable. Thank you for helping me to appreciate the beauty that is all around me. Thank you for being you. Thank you for loving me so completely and unconditionally. Thank you for always being my biggest fan. You meant the world to me, and I hope you knew that.
My heart is broken. I'm going to miss you more than words can say. I love you.
Judith Olson
August 14, 2020
Amy J Tilles
August 6, 2020
19 years ago this week, my boyfriend Scott and I went on our first vacation together to San Diego. Scott insisted that we stay with his Aunt Patti . He said, "You'll love her immediately." And I did. Like many Californians, Patti was beautiful and laid back. And over the course of that week I saw that she was also incredibly giving, genuine and engaging, with an infectious laugh that could bring joy to any room.
Patti's creativity and love of art was a gift she gave to many. Whether it was bows to decorate our wedding reception, artwork for our first home or help buying a piece at an art show, Patti saw and gave beauty to us every chance she had. And that gift extended to our children. Always arriving at our home with art gifts and time to help create everything from painted rocks to solariums to etched leaves -- her ability to connect with our boys was boundless.
It took a long time for me to understand that Patti's relationship with art was one of self-exploration and healing. With a difficult childhood, she sought to teach others, especially children, how to use art for good. Until I met Patti, I thought art was something people only did if they were good at it.
Aunty Patti, the world will be a darker place without your smile and love of true and meaningful beauty. But please know, that everywhere we turn the boys and I see all of the wonder and opportunity to create that you so generously taught us.
Barbara Cerf-Allen
July 29, 2020
I miss you Patti... I miss your fabulous enthusiasm and your encouraging love for children and art. You saw the beauty in life, every day. I wanted to make more art with you and learn from you... I am sad you left so early, but I am so glad I got to meet you. You definitely live on inside our hearts.
FRED MARINELLO
July 29, 2020
FOR ARTS SAKE ... PATTI AT THE MIC.
FRED MARINELLO
July 29, 2020
TPHS
FRED MARINELLO
July 29, 2020
FOR ARTS SAKE
FRED MARINELLO
July 29, 2020
FOR ARTS SAKE .... A PATTI FOX PRODUCTION
Frank Wuerthwein
July 27, 2020
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Patricia was a very special person in so many different ways. She had such an enormous impact on so many people. And was just so much fun to be around.
BlueFrog
July 27, 2020
Your art will carry your memories of love and kindness towards all.
Elena Mironova
July 27, 2020
Thank you for the wonderful art and memories. We miss you dearly.
PATRICK D ELLIS
July 27, 2020
Patti was a wonderful and giving individual. Her time on earth with us was one of positivity and reaching out to help others. Her art expressed the joy and love of change in the right direction. I was always moved by her desire to motivate people to reach their full potential as a person. I miss her terribly and regret not spending enough time with her and listening to her advice. God is celebrating his new angel and the other angels are going to get their wings painted with love.
FRED MARINELLO
July 25, 2020
2011-10-03 the Art Mavericks
Judy Olson
July 24, 2020
Patti Fox, Artist Some earlier paintings
Judy Olson
July 24, 2020
Judy Olson
July 23, 2020
Beloved Patti:
You always looked for the beauty, art and goodness and have gone out of your way to encourage it and pass it on to others. I connect with your spiritual approach to life on such a deep level. Although Life both difficult and painful at times, you gleaned the goodness, were joyful and upbeat and passed on positive and supportive messages to the world. You were grateful for the simplest act of kindness which is expressed in your writing.
I remember that precious little blond girl that I yelled at for being loud while you were playing as a child and you looked at me and said, "But I am having so much fun" and I remember looking at your smiling beautiful little face and blond hair and thinking why would I want her to be quiet while she is having so much fun.
I have never forgotten that Joyful little girl and indelible in my loving memories of you is the playful adult that so enjoyed being a Mother to Allen and Carolyn while creating art, teaching them so many things, baking and decorating cupcakes. All of this while advocating for children and manifesting joy as you maneuvered through life.
Our last conversation was about your recent book "IT'S A JOURNEY" and we talked about all of the "Patti Illustrations" with Splashes of vibrant colors, photos and art and sweet, positive and meaningful messages of goodness and encouragement. I truly felt your spiritual connection with each story. We talked on Father's Day and I told you that I was sorry that you were deprived of a Father and you said that you were not deprived; that you found many Father figures along your pathway of life.
My Heart is filled with LOVE and COMPASSION for you and my home is filled with your art on most walls and photos you created from shared experiences. Your books "If Dogs Could Talk" and "It's a Journey" will always remain on my coffee table and Most Of All......
My Deep Love for You Will Always Remain in my Heart, Judy
Alana Stach
July 23, 2020
I have so many amazing memories and feel fortunate to have been able to spend summers together at the lake. Patti drew people in with her big personality and caring spirit. You are and will forever be missed. One of our waterskiing inspirations was the 87 year old woman who was still ripping it up. Patti drew her photo and we posted the article alongside. I still have it up on my wall.
Samantha Berryessa Cowart
July 23, 2020
I knew Patti only through Deb Wolf and the changes she made in her life. Patty, was a beloved friend and often written about. Deb started singing and performing and she began painting. I believe Patty had a huge role in this creative movement and I am sorry I never knew her.
My Condolences to her family and friends. A life well lived.
Terrence Burns and Jess Durfee
July 22, 2020
Greatly missed and forever in our hearts.❤❤❤
FRED MARINELLO
July 22, 2020
For Arts Sake - May 2005
Glenny Eberts
July 22, 2020
Our family are so sorry for Allan and Carolyn. We will always remember your Mom’s kindness and bubbly energy to everyone at Wee Too Beach in Canada. Love and sympathy from The Eberts Family
FRED MARINELLO
July 22, 2020
MAY 2005 FA1 tphs
Thomas C. Bosworth
July 22, 2020
She gave me a safe place to create when I was struggling to find one. She will be missed.
FRED MARINELLO
July 22, 2020
YO, PATTIE a force for creativity, youth and friendship. Treasure the many hours we worked together and the wonderful artistic networking you encouraged. You are Missed! ciao fred
Carol Minear
July 22, 2020
Patti was one of the first artist women I met when I moved to San Diego in 2013. She supported my artwork, as she did so many others. I knew when she purchased a painting of mine titled “Old Soul”, she was exactly that. I will miss you, but also know you will always be with all of us, in our souls.
Ashley Childs
July 21, 2020
I told Patti Fox I didn't really like her back in High School (when she was putting together For Arts Sake with Fred Marinello at TPHS). She said, "Oh honey, you weren't ready for me back then! And I knew it!"
Patti Fox will ALWAYS remain my biggest fan, biggest cheerleader and a force of a woman which baffled me sometimes, above anything else. Her energy was unparalleled and she could connect you with 10 different people or more no matter what new idea you had in the back of your mind. This is a great loss, not only to San Diego county but to many artists and game-changers who crossed paths with her while she was with us. I'm so glad I finally warmed up to her... she was right, I wasn't ready. But when I was, she was on my phone on speed-dial.
I'm grateful she was there to help guide me through some of the very worst years of my life. I'm grateful for her support, for hours spent on the phone with her, for her wisdom, her experience and her willingness to share. I'm truly grateful she never gave up on me. She saw the best in all of us and I will miss her so, so much. This is truly, heartbreaking.
Eileen Robarge
July 21, 2020
Where do I start? From golf, to art, to concerts at the House of Blues, to traveling thru Ireland Patti acquired so many friends and so many FANS too! She was our staff photographer for the 25 of us on our trip to Ireland and one by one helped us all come up with nicknames for everyone...from the "Mind Reader, to "The Dapper Napper" to "The Angry Care Bear." Memories and forever friendships were born. She was so much apart of it and over the years introduced us all to other wonderful people. Rest in peace my dear friend, you are already missed but your presence will live on in each of us.
Jacquie Copeland
July 21, 2020
I knew Patti during Carolyn's time at Earl Warren and Torrey Pines High School. Carolyn and Dana Copeland Reddy were good friends, along with the other kids from Del Mar who liked hanging out at the beach. I really enjoyed seeing Patty at events where our kids participated. My condolences to the entire family for a wonderful woman, who always gave her utmost to help out.
Grandma Pat
July 21, 2020
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Casey P
July 21, 2020
Sending all of my love to Pattis family, friends, and The Fox Collaborative in this time. I can't imagine a world where Patti Fox is not stationed in her garage, oil bars and scraping tools scattered from end to end, words of inspiration written on the plywood on the walls, telling everyone inside to paint their dreams. I have lost a mentor and a friend, and the world has lost a light. As much as I have learned and grown in the last 7 years of knowing her, I can't help but feel there was still so much more to learn. She taught me so much more than how to paint and create art-- she taught me how to be the best version of myself. She taught me to embrace challenge. She reminded me to "always use your power with people for good." She taught me it was possible for me to live my dreams and be deliriously happy. Without Patti Fox in my life, I would not be the woman I am today. Working with her was the catalyst for the biggest life changes I have ever made, and I will be eternally grateful for her selflessness and inspiration every single day. Patti Fox, my Party Fox, damn it I am going to miss you.
Jodie Hill
July 21, 2020
just loved this woman. I met her about 8 yrs ago. She would often come out to listen to a lot of the different bands I played in. She was a huge supporter of live music. I love her feisty nature and as someone said you always knew what she thought. She also was an incredible painter and I've been to a couple of her art shows. I will truly miss you girl!!! My deepest condolences to her family and her beloved dog. Love you Patti Fox.
Brandon Aberg
July 21, 2020
Patti, you are a rare gem with the power to draw out peoples true potential in life. You have shaped so many peoples lives and helped people see the beauty and love in the world, especially when people are lost and at their worst. You have helped create leaders, healers, and innovators to change the world for the better of humanity. You are and always will be an inspiration in my life and so many others that you touched. I love you with all my heart!
Gabriel Tovar
July 21, 2020
ill miss you Patti sad to hear about this. May you Rest In Peace.
Ill always remember you for the rest of my life. Theres just so many memories. Many good times.
My condolences to your family..
Jeremy Karnowski
July 20, 2020
I am forever indebted to Patti. She showed me how to put my full self out into the world and live my dreams. See who I am and how I can help change the world, in my own way. The world is better, and will continue to be better, because she was a part of it.
Keep close to you all of her advice for art, for it is advice for life: Free yourself up. Cover the canvas. Step back every now and then and see what you've done. Make a mark, and then respond to it, and then keep going until you're satisfied. Get out of your head. Just do it.
Sarah K
July 20, 2020
I will always remember Patti's warmth and energy. Her unwavering confidence in me made me feel like I could make beautiful art, and then go home and tackle everything else. We will miss her and her big heart.
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