Patricia Jean (Clem) Teitzel

Patricia Jean (Clem) Teitzel passed away on October 31, 2022 in Moses Lake, WA after a long battle with cancer. Pat was born on September 18th, 1946 to Frank and Vera Clem. She was raised in Enumclaw, Washington along with her three siblings. . Pat's family was a loving one, with much support and guidance from her parents. The four siblings were very close to each other. Pat, and her sister Carole, helped care for their younger brothers Jim and Jess. Jim and Jess then made sure Pat was cared for when she fell so very ill after Dwight had passed away. Growing-up, Pat was always an exceptional student. She excelled at Enumclaw High School, where she graduated in 1964. Pat then worked at First National Bank in Seattle to earn money so she could go on to Central Washington State College. When Pat attended CWSC, it was here that she met her loving husband, Dwight Teitzel. They were married on August 17, 1968 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Enumclaw, WA. They then moved to Moses Lake, where Dwight began teaching at Moses Lake High School and Pat continued her education by commuting to CWSC. Pat graduated from CWSC in June of 1971 with a BA in Education. She began her teaching career in the fall of 1971 at Moses Lake High School where she taught many different business and office related classes. Pat loved her job! She was a dedicated professional, working hard to give her students everything she had to offer. In 1979, Pat made the decision to begin teaching at Big Bend Community College, where she stayed until she retired in 2011. Here she taught business and computer related classes, in which she also developed the curriculum for many of them. Again, Pat gained a reputation as a master teacher and won many awards for her exceptional work. One such award given to Pat at BBCC was the Faculty Emeritus Award, which is an award given for long term distinguished service to BBCC, nominated by her peers, it is based on professional excellence, leadership, and significant contributions to college programs. Pat cared about all of her students. A number of her students were from foreign countries, some of which included Japan, India, Kuwait, as well as different European countries. Pat spent much of her own time helping many of the foreign students learn to read, write, and speak English. Over the years, many of her students kept in touch with her, and a number of them found career jobs because of her recommendations. Pat grew-up as an avid sports fan. She was an exceptional athlete herself, always wishing that Title IX had come earlier, so she too could have had the same opportunities that women have today. It didn't matter what the game was, Pat had a special talent, she was highly competitive, and illustrated a great desire to win. Her brother Jim has always said that Pat was the best athlete in the family. Later Pat enjoyed following her nephews, Zach and Jacob Clem, as they played sports through high school, baseball in college (UW), and then professionally. For many years, Pat and her brother Jess, enjoyed watching golf tournaments together. This was a favorite activity for both of them. When Carole and/or her children George (Rena), Angela, and Frank, visited from Greece, Pat and Dwight would have fun showing them around Moses Lake. There were boat trips, picnics, board games, and lots of visiting done at home. When Pat's parents retired to Moses Lake, they eventually aged to the point where they needed help. Pat was there for them, as she made sure they were cared for, the bills were paid, and the grocery shopping was done. She helped to see that doctor appointments were made and that they got to church on Sunday for as long as they were able. Pat and Dwight also brought them favorite food dishes from home. Pat loved her family above all things. Pat and Dwight were married for 54 years before Dwight passed on July 30, 2022. During their married years, Pat and Dwight loved building a life together. Their families and friends meant the world to them. Before Pat became ill, she and Dwight enjoyed travelling. They also took great pride in designing and living in their newly built home on the lake, where they entertained family and friends. They enjoyed spending time together. They were always there for each other, remaining dedicated and committed to each other till the end. Pat was a devout Catholic with a strong faith. She attended Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church until she was unable due to her illnesses. Preceding Pat in death was her husband, Dwight Teitzel, and her parents Frank and Vera (Guggenbickler) Clem. Pat's surviving family members include her sister Carole (Clem) Sfondouris, nephew George (Rena) Sfondouris, niece Angela Sfondouris, nephew Frank Sfondouris, brother Jim (Annette) Clem, nephew Zachary Clem (Julia) , nephew Jacob Clem (Jonna, significant other), and brother Jess Clem. The family would like to give a heartfelt thank-you to Irina Stoyanova, Pat's outstanding caregiver. Irina is a loving, dedicated caregiver, which Pat's family will always feel indebted to. Irina took care of Pat during her final days in her own home. The family would also like to thank Assured Hospice for everything they did to help Pat during her time of need. Assured Hospice is a wonderful organization, who was always there to care for Pat. Also, a thank you goes out to Columbia Crest for their efforts in helping Pat. Special thanks to Father Dan, and Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, for taking Pat into their care as well. In lieu of flowers, the family would like to encourage donations to Assured Hospice in Moses Lake 1417 Pioneer Way Moses Lake, WA 98837

Patricia Jean (Clem) Teitzel

September 18, 1946 - October 31, 2022