Pat R. Starkovich

1932 - 2018

BORN

1932

DIED

2018

Pat Starkovich Obituary

Pat R. Starkovich

Pat R. Starkovich, 85, died in Seattle on January 25, 2018 after a short illness. She was born in Seattle on December 16, 1932, the oldest child of Russell and Cecil (Sovereign) Dailey.

Pat helped raise 4 of her younger siblings in the hard times of the 30's and early 40's. She recalled one Christmas when the gifts were an orange for each child and a chocolate bar split between them. One brother recently called her the "the rock" of our family.

In 1953 Pat married George T. Starkovich. Pat supported her husband and his stand for free speech and against the tyranny of the McCarthy era and specifically, the House Un-American Committee hearings in Seattle in 1954. She traveled to NW towns & cities speaking at progressive gatherings (Georges nature skill, not hers) to raise money for George's legal defense. Together they continued their lifelong passion for seeking peace and supporting social justice issues. Pat lovingly cared for George at home as Alzheimer's disease increasingly took its toll. Their marriage and true life partnership lasting 61 years until George's death 4 years ago.

Pat became a medical assistant, then RN and Seattle's 2nd enterostomal therapist working at Group Health in the late 60's to early '80's. She ended her nursing career working at the state veteran's home in Port Orchard for 8 years, retiring at age 62. Pat then did before & after school care for her 2 oldest grandsons.

While working as the nurse for the Greenwood Home for adults for developmental disabilities Pat met Richard Ball a resident there. Pat & George became Richards's guardian and lovingly included Richard in their lives & family for about 15 years until his death.

Pat will be remembered for her unconditional love and kindness to all and her delight in the children in her life and never missing a teachable moment. She was known as Gramma Pat to a wide circle.

Pat is survived by her brothers Jim, Mike (Rosie), George & Gregg Dailey; sister Carroll Jackson; children David (Vivian) & Patty Starkovich (Greg Allen); grandsons Elliot & Tyler Allen and Ronnie & George Starkovich.

No flowers please. There will be gathering at 12551 42nd Ave NE on Sat, February 10th, 2PM to remember and honor Pat.

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

Published by The Seattle Times on Jan. 28, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Pat Starkovich

Sponsored by The Family.

7 Entries

RobbieJean Dailey

January 23, 2023

When my family lived on Vashon (in a trailer behind their house), the Columbus day storm hit. I was terrified! The trailer was rocking back and forth, the wind was horrific. Mom struggled to walk with Rusty and me in tow, but we made it to their house. Aunt Pat picked me up and cradled me until I stopped shaking and crying. She got me one of Uncle Georges warm shirts. I knew then that I was always safe with Aunt Pat.
I sure miss her and think of her often, and always smile at the great memories she gave me.

RobbieJean Dailey

January 28, 2021

I wish that EVERY child had an Aunt like Pat was to me, so genuine. I so miss her.
I also wish that EVERY child had an Uncle like George was to me, so gruff, so tender. I so miss him too.

Bob Crittenden

February 13, 2018

Pat and George were the lodestone of the true north of progressivism. You could always check yourself by listening to both of them. Pat was forceful and compassionate. She brought Richard into their lives and gave him a real family for the rest of his life. And, she was the center point of their extended family about which all else orbited. We will miss her.

Robbie Dailey

February 1, 2018

My favorite memory of Aunt Pat was when she played a vinyl LP of "Peter and the Wolf" while letting my brothers play with "Pick-up Sticks" and had them read books, while I got to play with the Lincoln Logs! (unheard of in those days for a 'girl' to build anything). She always made me feel as if I could do anything. I loved her whispered chuckles, the nose-wrinkles when she smiled or laughed, the warm and tender hugs that she always gave freely. I'm going to miss getting my butt kicked by her in Scrabble. Her compassion for ALL humanity was incredible. She mattered to me. I loved her. I'm going to miss her voice, wisdom, advice, help, insights, views, and opinions she shared with me my whole life. When I'll think of her and the wonderful fun memories she gave me to keep forever, I will always grin, or smile, or laugh out loud!
Godspeed on Angel wings, my dear Aunt Pat.

Mariah Roberts

January 30, 2018

Pat is present in memories throughout my life, starting when she and George lived in a duplex above my folks. "Strength, humor, twinkle, perspective, hug." -These are a few of the words that hold Pat in my mind. I am sending my own version of those sentiments back to all who are missing her and grieving her loss, with a bit of a Pat chuckle for good measure as well. Love, Mariah

Kamie Beckwith

January 29, 2018

Patty,
I never had the pleasure of meeting either of your parents... but they had to have been some of the best, top-notch, most kind-hearted people on this planet because this is also how I would describe you! My thoughts are with you and your family in this difficult time and always. I'm so sorry for your loss. XOXO

Patty Starkovich

January 28, 2018

One of my mom's greatest gifts to me was seeing her personal strength, as well as her world view.
A favorite quote:
If I am not for myself, who will be for me? And if I am only for myself, what am I? (Rabbi Hillel)

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