Wilma Patching

1936 - 2025

Wilma Patching passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025, in Longview, WA. She was 89 years old. She was a beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great grandmother who will be deeply missed by her loved ones.

Wilma Ida Beyer was born to Fred and Christina Beyer on June 4, 1936, in St. Helens, OR. As a teen she moved to Rainier, OR, where she met and later married her school bus driver, Sam Patching, on Valentine's Day 1953.

Wilma and Sam had two sons, Charles (Chuck) in 1955 and Rodney in 1957.

In 1959, the couple and their young family moved to Cathlamet, WA, where Sam began an illustrious career as a tugboat captain. Cathlamet was home for the next forty years, where Wilma raised her boys and immersed herself in the local community. Many wonderful memories were created here, from the boys' many ballgames to weekend card games with her girlfriends.

Wilma had a huge heart and was generous with her affection. She cherished her family and was especially close with her daughter-in-law, Susie. She delighted in being a grandmother, rarely missing a school or sporting event, and attending every birthday party, holiday dinner, and graduation celebration of her four grandchildren. She was a central figure in their lives and stayed close with each of them as they created their own families.

Wilma and Sam retired to Rainier, OR, where they enjoyed watching the tugboats and ships travel down the Columbia River. They enjoyed frequent visits from friends and family. As was the case throughout their lives, a little dog, most recently Minnie, could be found nestled in one of their laps.

Wilma was preceded in death by her son Rodney Patching, great-granddaughter Lily Greenough, parents Fred and Christina Beyer, sister Esther Roufs, brother Raymond Beyer, and the many small dogs she loved throughout the years.

Survivors include her husband of 72 years, Sam Patching, her son and daughter-in-law Chuck and Susie Patching of Woodland, WA, grandchildren Amy Winston (Dan Katzer) of Seattle, Kelly Greenough (Dan) of Hermiston, OR, Matt Patching (Samantha) of Spokane, WA, and Tim Patching (Amy) of Woodland, WA. She is also survived by six great-grandchildren, her niece Linda Sabroski, and great-nieces Rhonna Schnell and Tina Kota.

At Wilma's request there will be no funeral service. Memorial donations may be made to The Humane Society for Southwest Washington Longview Branch or Edon Hospice.