Patricia Sether

Sether, Patricia Joanne (nee McPhillips), 81, of New Brighton. Passed away January 29. Preceded in death by beloved husband of 48 years, Wayne; mother Florence Tanem Rathbun; brothers David McPhillips and Michael McPhillips; brother-in-law Don Sether; and sisters-in-law June Sether and Patricia A. Sether.

Pat will be dearly missed by her daughter Laura (John Deisz) Sether, Westlake Village, CA; son Steve (Anne Woodall) Sether, Minneapolis; adored granddaughter Lila Tanem Deisz, Westlake Village, CA; brothers Tom (Sherry) McPhillips, Blaine, and Alan (Marina Woodard) Rathbun, Lacey, WA; brother-in-law Dick Sether, Roseville; sister-in-law Dolly McPhillips, Coon Rapids; and many nieces & nephews.

Pat grew up in Minneapolis and earned an English degree from the University of Minnesota. She met Wayne teaching Franklin Junior High in Minneapolis and they married in 1964. She went on to teach ESL at Pratt School in Minneapolis for 20 years and valued her interactions with students from all over the world. Pat was a voracious reader, a crossword enthusiast, an avid gardener, a world traveler, and a creative cook who loved to entertain.

Pat and Wayne spent many fun-filled winters as snowbirds in Fort Myers, FL, where they made lasting friends. Pat also enjoyed serving as a volunteer docent at the Minnesota Governor’s Residence through the Women’s Organization of the Minnesota Historical Society, and she was an active AAUW member.

A 45-year ovarian cancer survivor, Pat fought bravely against a rare form of mesothelioma, with expert care (both times) from the esteemed Mayo Clinic. She was filled with gratitude for her fortunate life, her much-loved family and loyal friends.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, July 24th, at 11AM at the Exchange Food and Drink, 500 5th Ave NW, New Brighton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Second Harvest Heartland or Habitat for Humanity.