Eleanore Ratzel Morris "Pat" Slanker

1918 - 2014

Eleanore "Pat" Ratzel Morris Slanker was born in Chicago on July 11, 1918. As a teen she was told by her doctor that she needed to get to a warmer, drier climate or she would die. She arrived alone in Tucson at 19, $5 in her pocket, and weighed 89 lbs. But here she thrived for over 75 years and lived a wonderful life until her death, February 14, 2014 at the age of 95, from the effects of Myasthenia Gravis. Pat survived three husbands, James A Morris, Harold Martin and Ted Slanker. Morris Optical Co., the first independent optical shop in Tucson, was founded by Pat with husband, Jim. Marvelous cook, owner/lover of poodles and cats, lucky gambler, hard worker, scratch golfer, world traveler, beautiful dresser – this was her essence. She had an innate sense of style and always surrounded herself with good design and pretty things. She played superb bridge well into her 91st year and enjoyed visits from special friends: Meredith, Joan, Jim, Charles, Clare, Nancy and Boo. Pat is survived by her daughter, Pamela Morris Samuels; grandson, Scot (Erica) Webster; great-granddaughters, Sophie, Sydney and Ella; niece, Camille (Del) O'Neal; nephew, Robert Ratzel (Connie); niece, Kathy Gitske; stepson, Richard Martin (Jane). An immortalizing of Pat is in the art project known as "Windows to the Past" in the Broadway underpass. The 18' high photo tile depiction of her at 20, walking on Congress St., shows the pretty, classy lady she always was. (4th from left) A Celebration of life will be at a later date. If you wish to make a donation to honor Pat, something that helps animals would be appreciated. (Pictured above on 90th birthday) Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel.