Recent Obituaries

Patricia Lynch Baer (1928-2024)

Patricia Lynch Baer passed away peacefully to meet her Lord and Savior on May 14, 2024 at the age of 96. Patty Ann was born in Seattle, Washington on May 12, 1928 to Jack Omar Lynch Sr. and Margaret Winnifred Lynch. Patricia had two sisters, Janet, Susannah, and a younger brother, Jack Jr. She grew up in the beautiful Seattle area and later graduated from Queen Anne High School in 1946. Shortly thereafter, Patricia enrolled at the University of Washington where she became a member of the Tri Delta sorority where she made many long lasting friends. During this time she studied Sociology and received her degree from the UW in 1950. However, probably the most significant event while in college was when she met the love of her life, Donald Francis Baer. They were married on August, 31st,1949, at the Epiphany Episcopal Church and remained married for over 73 years.

During Patricia’s life the most important things she valued were her faith in God, and being a patient and supportive wife, mother, and friend. Donald and Patricia primarily raised their four children in Kent where they lived for over 65 years in the home Donald built for her. Pat had many interests which included involvement with her church, Children’s Orthopedic, being a loyal Husky sports fan, and a longtime member of the Kent Swim Club. She developed many friends while active with swim team programs and even volunteered to help teach children how to swim. During the summer months, she enjoyed swimming with many of her dear friends.This led Patricia to begin skiing in the winters with her friends and family well into her eighties. Patricia was always enthusiastic to learn new things throughout her life. At 90, she went out for her first round of golf at Meridian Valley Country Club; a club which her father, Jack Lynch Senior, was the founding member. She had always wanted to try and golf and when the opportunity happened she took it!

In 1970, Patricia decided it was time to help support her family and began working at her family’s business, Lynch Manufacturing in the Kent Valley. She had a long career as a manager and salesperson for the furniture company until her retirement. Another calling for Pat was to become more involved with the Presbyterian Church. She assisted a Vietnamese Church to become established and tirelessly helped them by volunteering with bookkeeping and providing guidance. Later at Bellevue Presbyterian Church, she faithfully served as a Synod Moderator and Elder of the church.

Her blue eyes, quiet, loving spirit, and sense of humor will be greatly missed by all. Her grandson said it best, “She was so kind and supportive and loved and accepted us all as we were.” This was so true, and Patricia later revealed her source of strength and would share, “I just want to serve Jesus.” This was evident as she grew older and wiser in her faith.

Patricia is survived by her sister Susannah Johnson (Jerome) of Seattle, and by all of her children, David L. Baer (Leigh) of West Seattle, Nancy Baer of Seattle, Carolyn Dillon of San Diego, and Joanne Berg ( Randy) of Spokane, and nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

A joint private memorial will be held to celebrate Patricia and Donald Baer’s lives at Bellevue Presbyterian Church.