Patricia “Patty” Ann Winch, was born on May 20, 1943 in Dubuque, IA to Retired Major Robert C. and Dorothy C. Lagen. A proud graduate of Auburn University – War Eagle! – Patty followed in her parents’ footsteps as a classroom teacher in Columbus, Georgia.
In 1965, she met the love of her life, Cpt. Jack J. Winch, Jr. on a blind date. After a whirlwind romance, Jack and Patty married on September 19, 1966 in Fort Benning, GA. Within a year they welcomed their oldest daughter, Joanne, and soon their sons, Jack, III and Paul, followed. As a proud military family, they moved through postings in Kansas, Georgia, and Alabama, with Jack’s final assignment bringing them to Fort Lewis, WA, where their youngest daughter, Dottie, was born.
After Jack’s retirement from the army, the family planted roots in Federal Way, where Patty was the devoted heart and soul of the family. She taught in their church’s baptismal prep classes, was a CCD teacher, and a Eucharistic minister for more than 25 years. She was very involved in the children’s school activities, the PTA, musical endeavors, multiple sporting events, and even 10 years of paper route delivery (which allowed them to follow their passions and interests) without fail. She was always there at every concert, game or play, cheering on her kids. Patty’s commitment to the people she loved was never less than 100%, and her love and pride in her children and grandchildren was boundless.
After raising the children, Patty returned to work in teaching and real estate, before ultimately joining Jack at his CPA firm, where she worked alongside him for 20 years until retirement. She had a special tenderness for animals, and the family dogs were never just pets; they were cherished members of the household. In retirement, Patty treasured her time with family and friends, her faith and attendance at Mass, and caring for her “baby” dog, Teena.
Patty leaves behind many loved ones, especially her husband of nearly 60 years, Jack, Jr.; daughter Joanne Iverson, sons Jack Winch, III and Paul Winch, and daughter Dottie Farewell; grandchildren Kyle (Mallory) Iverson, Natalie and Chloe Iverson, Mary, Dexter, and Stone Farewell, and Grace Winch. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Dorothy, brother Bob Lagen, son-in-laws George Iverson and Kevin Farewell, and grandson Louis Farewell.
A funeral Mass will be held on April 9, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Federal Way with a reception to follow.
For over 40 years we have shared the ups and downs of our lives. I will forever cherish the memories of our friendship.
I’ve been a family friend for many years. Some of my oldest memories go back to our soccer team. We were very competitive. I’ve always enjoyed knowing their kids locally in Federal Way and even venturing all the way to Tacoma for high school at Bellarmine prep.. I had the pleasure of visiting Jack and Patricia when they were in need of a good roof cleaning. Their son Paul Winch was very gracious to become my son’s godfather and assisting him through his catechism and confirmation at St. Vincent de Paul.
May Patricia be in loving arms of our father and Savior 🙏🏻
I love you Mom! My world is missing your love, tenderness and positive thoughts, energy! You showed, and taught, us/me how to love unforgivingly. Your voice and actions are always present, just like your mothers’!!