Patricia Evelyn Kohla

Patricia was born on April 6, 1935, in Los Angeles, California, to Burt and Hazel Elizabeth Wean. She grew up in Southern California, where she raised her family before relocating to Western Washington in 1975.

Determined to pursue a career in caring for others, Patricia put herself through nursing school and went on to work as a nurse for 25 years. During her nursing career, she met Joseph Kohla, whom she married in 1979. Together they shared 18 wonderful years of marriage before Joe's passing. One of their greatest joys was traveling throughout the United States each spring in their RV, creating cherished memories together.

Patricia's greatest calling was being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family was the center of her world, and loving them was one of life's greatest joys. She celebrated their successes and was always there with open arms and an abundance of love.

She expressed her love most often through quiet acts of kindness with everyone she met, but especially within her own family. Whether preparing a favorite meal, caring for someone who was sick, watching grandchildren and great-grandchildren, or simply showing up whenever she was needed, Patricia gave generously of her time and herself. Her family will forever remember the quiet, steadfast love she shared so freely and the example she set of faith, kindness, and selfless service.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Patricia dedicated her life to serving God and those around her. She was called to serve as a missionary in the FamilySearch Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she found great joy in helping others discover their family history and connect with their ancestors. Her love for this work was so strong that she extended her mission multiple times, serving for a total of six years.

Patricia is survived by four of her five children: Debbie Greene of Blair, Nebraska; Richard Alarcon of Desert Hot Springs, California; Donna (Scott) Mertlich of Puyallup, Washington; and Monica (Dale) Bernfeld of Puyallup, Washington. She is also survived by 19 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Kohla; her son, Paul Dennis Alarcon; her daughter-in-law, Marty Alarcon; her granddaughter, Catherine Alarcon; and her great-granddaughter, Kirianna Rowland.

Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing on Friday, July 24, at 10:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ridgecrest Building, 12407 Military Road E., Puyallup, Washington. Interment at Woodbine Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Patricia's memory.