Patricia 'Patsy' Washburn, 57

Patricia "Patsy" Washburn passed away at her home with her loved ones by her side Saturday, Oct. 15, 2005, after a brave battle with cancer.

Patsy was born Sept. 19, 1947, in Whitefish, to Ray and Dorothy Fisher of Coram.

She was a devoted wife, loving and caring mother and an awesome grandmother. Her grandbabies were so precious to her. The love and care she gave them will never be forgotten.

She loved having the family out to the cabin at McGregor Lake and enjoyed camping, fishing and swimming all her life. She also adored her pets and was an avid reader. Patsy was a centerpiece in her extended family, and her absence leaves a sad void.

Patsy's life was lengthened by the gift of a kidney from her brother Bob Fisher in 1975 - a surgery that put her brother's life at risk but extended Patsy's life for another 30 precious years. She was diagnosed with cancer in 2004 and fought until the end. We are so proud of her decisions and her bravery through her battle.

Patsy was preceded in death by her father, Ray Fisher.

She is survived by her husband, Gilbert Washburn, of Columbia Falls; a son, Donel Washburn of Columbia Falls; a daughter, Kimberly White, and husband, Sean White; grandchildren, Carson, 4, Baylee, 2, and Eliot,1; a sister, Peggy Kuzmic, of Seattle; brother, Marvin Fisher and wife, Kathy; of Coram, brother, Ray Fisher and wife, Connie, of Hungry Horse; and numerous members of the Washburn family, and extended cousins, nephews, nieces and friends.

Words cannot express how much Patsy will be missed by those who loved her. "We know she is now well and whole and with the Lord. She will always live in our hearts. Bye-bye wife, mother, daughter, grandma, sister and friend. We will miss you."

Cremation has taken place. A memorial will be held Monday, Oct. 24, between 3 and 6 p.m. at the Assembly of God Church in Columbia Falls.