Wendelin ‘Wendy’ A. Patterson

Wendy was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., on May 1, 1944 to Robert Francis “Bob” Patterson and Mary Barbara “Babs” Morgan. She leaves her siblings, Bob, Joan, and Susan.

She attended Dormont High School, Penn State where she earned her bachelor’s degree, and the University of Pittsburgh for her master’s degree.

She was married on April 29, 1967, to Thomas Myers, for 11 years. They had two sons, Lee Myers of Colchester and Michael Myers of Denver, Colo.

She is also loved by the children of Daniel Sullivan, her life partner of 27 years, Colleen Thompson of Henderson, Nev., Michael Sullivan of Orinda, Calif., and Lisa Casler of Richmond, Va. The collective group of their children affectionately knew her as Grandma Wendy.

Both in her professional life, 17 years with the State of Vermont Department of Human Services, and in her personal life, Wendy was an expert at creating networks and motivating people toward positive change. This applied to many areas: her community, politics, friends, and herself. She was a fearless fighter for and defender of her principles, and once engaged, would use courage, stamina, and resources to prevail. Again and again, Wendy overcame odds and emerged victorious. She was always open to new activities, hobbies and ideas.

Her friends were very important to her, and many have known her for decades. She was an adventurous soul and world traveler, especially fond of Paris where she visited more than a dozen times and often thought she might be slightly Parisian. Of late, she had accomplished a lifelong goal of becoming an exhibited artist. With inspiration from the city she loved so much, and through dedication to her craft, she developed her skills as a watercolor artist to be displayed in three shows and a gallery exhibit.

Her steadfast, pragmatic ways and ability to stay in the moment, was admirable, and she taught people to be strong even in her final days.

A memorial service will be held from 4 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28 at the First Unitarian Universalist Society, 152 Pearl St., Burlington, Vermont.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation of any amount to the Vermont Respite House, 99 Talcott Road, Williston, VT 05495.

Through their loving and tender ways, the staff and volunteers made Wendy’s final days peaceful and comfortable.