Barbara Patterson

Barbara McMullin Patterson crossed the finish line on July 30, 2013 to the joy of those awaiting in her eternal home. She entered this world at the onset of the "Roaring Twenties," appropriately timed for the vibrant life she epitomized! Born September 17, 1921 in Heber, Utah, she was the beloved daughter of John Edwin and Edna Mae Dayton McMullin, sister of Basil and Curtis and wife of Robert (Bob) Patterson, all who have preceded her in death. Also preceding her in death are her two son in laws, William Sargent, James Rich and grandson Jackson Rich. Happy days were had in Heber, including riding atop floats as the Mayor's daughter and being sled-driven thru town by her dog Rover. In 1933 the family moved to Salt Lake where Barbara made many lasting friendships. After graduating from East High in 1939, she enrolled in LDS Business College to become a stenographer. She also attended USC during WWII and used her secretarial skills during the war years working at Remington Arms and on Treasure Island in San Francisco. In 1946 she met Bob Patterson, a handsome recently returned Army 1st Lieutenant who immediately reported to his mother he'd met the girl he would marry. They were married in June 1947 in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. In 1954, the family settled into their home on Millbrook Road where Barbara lived until 2010.

Their children, Margaret Sargent (Bill), Joanne Rich (Jim), Janette Sonnenberg (Brent) and Robert Patterson (Liz) feel privileged to have been blessed with such an amazing mother. Besides being their friend, advisor and advocate, she encouraged their involvement in church, community and being a participator in life. She was the consummate LDS ward and stake drama director, directing many on stage and in life! She was a PTA president, President of the Salt Lake Garden Club, President of the PMT Theater Guild and served on the boards of the Salt Lake Council of Women, the Utah Symphony Guild and Gina Bachauer Piano Competition. In the 1960's, her love for people led to her study of Personology. After completing the required courses, she opened a counseling office and helped many realize their special gifts and channel those gifts in a positive direction.

One can't talk of Barbara without mentioning summers at the family Bear Lake cabin or her Christmas tea parties, times she shined her brightest. Many (often strangers) were the recipients of her generous invitations and fun loving spirit! She was as much at home hosting dignitaries as she was in the middle of a water fight at the lake! She loved and catered to her family above all. Many trips with her children and their spouses were a treasured treat. Most of her 20 grandchildren were treated to a unique vacation with just their "Mootsie"! All of her family, including her 40 great-grandchildren have benefited from her generosity and positive outlook on life. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the wonderful care givers both at Sunrise at Holladay and those who served her at home. Her influence for good and cheerful countenance was felt and admired by all who knew her, even throughout the difficult aging process she endured. Heaven will be brighter with her light!

Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 5th at the Valley View LDS 6th Ward, 2125 East Evergreen Avenue at 11:00 AM. Family and friends are welcome to visit with the family Sunday evening from 6:30- 8:30 PM at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 South Highland Drive and from 9:30 - 10:45 AM on Monday. For those wishing, the family suggests making a donation to the charity of your choice .