Patricia Marion Foster

of Bainbridge Island passed away on July 29, 2008 after a long illness. She died peacefully at home surrounded by her family.Pat was born in 1924 to Walter Reginald Brook Oliver and Isabella Anne Oliver in Seatoun, a suburb of Wellington, New Zealand. She received her teachers training certificate and taught primary school. She later worked as a photogrammetrist, a job which she particularly loved. She married Paul Saxon Alexander Foster in 1949 and they immigrated to the United States in 1951, becoming naturalized citizens in 1957. They lived in New Jersey for one year, then in Seattle, settling on Bainbridge Island in 1960 where they put down roots and raised their five children. Pat loved gardening, sailing, camping, knitting and music. She was accomplished at the piano, the baroque recorder and composing, and instilled a love of music in her children. She was a deacon in the Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church, coordinating ushers and organizing the flowers for many faithful years. She and her husband Paul also volunteered at Helpline House during their retirement years. Pat will be remembered for her gentle spirit and quiet joy in helping others. Pat was preceded in death by her beloved husband in 1999 and her brother Robin Oliver in 2001. She is survived by her sister Nancy Oliver, her five daughters, Susan Newell, Elizabeth Foster, Catherine Foster, Leslie Foley and Mary Grant, and two grandchildren, Arthur Grant and Paul Foley. She will be greatly missed.A memorial service will be held at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church Wednesday, August 6, at 2:00 p.m.