Patricia M. Patt Coulter

Patricia "Patt" M. Coulter was born on November 26th, 1933 to her parents Otillia "Tillie" and Alvin Deen in Hays, Kansas. She grew up surrounded by many aunts and uncles and was proud to call Hays her hometown. Patt passed from this life on September 30th, 2018, at the age of 84 in Wichita, KS. Patt is survived by her children, Brent (and Jennifer) Coulter, Bryan (and Jodi) Coulter, and Connie (and Patrick) Erbert. Patt was so proud of her grandchildren; Jeremy Coulter, Josh and Rosemary Coulter, Aubrey Coulter, Fr. Isaac Coulter, Erin and Scott Cooper, Eli Coulter, Emma Coulter, and Alaina Coulter. Patt was blessed to be a great grandmother to Sophia Mickelson-Coulter, Riley Coulter, and Gianna Cooper. Patt was the oldest child in her family. She leaves behind her siblings; Rich (Bernice) Deen, Eileen Maxwell, and Anita Deen. She was also graced with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Patt is preceded in death by her parents, her beloved first born, Cindy, brother-in-law Bob Maxwell, niece Karen Deen, and numerous aunts and uncles. She was the heart of a very large and loving family who will miss her dearly. Patt lived the majority of her life in Kansas, mostly in Hays. After graduating from Girls Catholic High School, she briefly contemplated a career in vocal music after winning a national competition. But Tillie wanted her daughter close to home, so Patt chose a career that would define her life and character. St. Anthony School of Nursing was a sisterhood of women who became some of the best nurses, friends, and colleagues. Nursing was more than a career for Patt. It was a natural part of her lifelong conviction and passion to caring for others. Patt married Mel Coulter on April 23rd, 1958. As a military wife, she traveled to various states while creating a family of four children. She truly was the super glue that held her family together through many moves and adventures. Patt returned to Hays in 1972, delivering her family closer to home and loved ones. Patt worked fulltime as a nurse at St. Anthony Hospital while also being a fulltime mom at home (with much help from Grandma Tillie). Patts nursing career is a testament to her heartfelt dedication and headstrong determination. She began as Head Nurse of the Pediatrics Unit, soon became Clinical Director and was finally promoted to Nursing Director. She retired in 1992. Patt moved to Wichita in 2009, after the death of her daughter Cindy. (Rest assured, that reunion in heaven was glorious!) Living in Wichita brought her closer to children and grandchildren, who were fortunate to have her in their lives. Patt was a pistol! Though short in stature, she was famous for her big sense of humor! She was known to laugh until she cried. Of course, she was also a wee bit feisty, opinionated, and stubborn. Oh, the stories we could tell! But her heart was always good. ALWAYS! She loved deeply and forgave easily, even in the most difficult circumstances and deepest hurts. Patts unwavering Faith was the absolute foundation of her life, and her example inspired all who knew and loved her. James 1:2-4 "Count it all joy, my brethren, when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." In addition to prayers, Patt and her family request that individuals honor her memory by considering adoption! Please, adopt an elderly person who is a shut-in or lives in a nursing or care facility. There are so many lovely people spending their final days waiting for time to pass and longing for meaningful human contact. A hand to hold. Far too many of our elders rarely have visitors. Mom was so fortunate to have family and friends love her daily. She enjoyed wonderful neighbors who became family to all of us. Consider a weekly gift of time at your local nursing home. It will change their lives AND yours. Catholic education was also close to Patts heart. Memorials can be made to Thomas More Prep- Marian High School, Hays, Kansas or Holy Savior Church and Academy, Wichita Kansas. Memorials to: Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, 1701 Hall St., Hays, Kansas 67601; Carmelite Sisters of St. Teresa c/o Diocese of Wichita, 424 N. Broadway, Wichita, KS 67202. Rosary 6 pm, Wednesday, October 3, St. Elizabeth Chapel at Catholic Care Center. Funeral Mass 11 am, Thursday, October 4, at Church of the Resurrection. Celebration Mass 11 am, Friday, October 5, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Hays, KS. Burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Hays, KS. Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.