Patricia Anne Buttemer's Obituary
Gracious. Kind. Curator of Joy. Patricia “Patty” Buttemer was a beloved and caring wife, mother, aunt, grandmother “Sammie”, and friend. A native San Diegan and life-long devout Catholic, she passed away peacefully on January 8, 2024 at the age of 83. Nobody's perfect, although her sparkling blue eyes and chocolate icebox cake were as close as you can get.
She was born to Lou and Kay Mulligan in 1940. After attending Blessed Sacrament grammar and Rosary High schools, she graduated from Hoover High and attended San Diego State University. While in high school Pat met a young, handsome engineering major - Dave - who took her as his date to the Blue Book Ball. Together they shared 64 years of marriage, had 3 children - Kimberly, Karen, and Jeff - and traveled the world.
Pat devoted herself to her family, her church, and her friends. She was President of the San Diego Junior Women’s Club, member of the Children's Home Society, and active for years in the Mystical Rose Guild. She shaped many children’s lives as an educator and administrator at St. Martin’s Academy and Our Mother of Confidence Religious Education. In her retirement, she volunteered at Nazareth House.
Pat was known for bringing people together and being a supreme hostess. And for always having plenty of leftovers. She welcomed guests - whether her bridge or bunko groups, her extended family, or her children’s friends - with a warm smile and plate of baked goods. Her five grandchildren - Brittany, Sarah, Grant, Derek, Nicole - and precious dog Penny were what she described as her “frosting of life”. She will forever be remembered for making each one feel special and making Christmases spectacular.
Pat’s faith was steadfast. She was abundantly grateful for God’s blessings and made the world a better place during her very full life. A Celebration of Life (joyful attire encouraged) is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at Our Mother of Confidence, 3131 Governor Drive, San Diego. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Nazareth House or Our Mother of Confidence - Religious Education Fund.
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