Patricia Ann Simonds Koplin, a woman of strength and unwavering love, left this world on Nov. 19, 2023, surrounded by her beloved family members.
Born in Rochester, Minnesota, to Walter and Evelyn Simonds, Pat completed their family alongside siblings Nancy and Jim. The family moved to St. Paul, where she spent her school years.
Her athletic prowess flourished, earning her the coveted All City Seal during high school. She loved her role as secretary/treasurer of the club. Following graduation, she attended secretary school, mastering typing and proudly achieving over 100 words per minute.
In February 1957, she married Robert "Bob" Williams, and soon the family expanded with the arrival of Robin Lynn in December 1957 and Melinda Jo in January 1959.
As a military family, the family crisscrossed the globe, calling Washington state, Spain, Minnesota, Germany and California home. In the face of life's challenges, Pats resilience shone through. She was employed as a secretary for five years before obtaining the title of escrow officer, within five years managing her own title office.
After a divorce in 1992, she found love again, marrying Tony Cambra. Their union brought bonus children into her life, Norma Leahy and Mark Cambra. Seven years later, Tony passed away, and Pat relocated to Washington state to be closer to Melinda and her family. Pat’s role as mother, grandmother and great-grandmother “Gigi” was her fidefining identity.
Pat also took pride in her Golden Estates home. Her impeccable yard and pristine house were a testament to her avid love of gardening, homemaking and sewing.
Pat was an avid reader and especially enjoyed sharing a good romance novel with her granddaughter. Puzzles were more than a pastime with Pat; they were a passion.
In 2002, love found Pat again in the form of her neighbor, Clarence “Bud” Koplin. They shared eight years together before Bud’s passing.
Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, husbands and daughter, Robin. She is survived by her daughter, Melinda (Paul) Wilkes; bonus daughter and son, Norma (Dennis) Leahy and Mark (Rose) Cambra; grandson, Mathew (Michelle) Schlecht; granddaughter, Amanda (Ryan) Berg; bonus grandchildren, Matthew (Lena) Wilkes, Zachary (Lexi) Wilkes, Danielle (Vincent) Trapani and Jake Leahy; and numerous great-grandchildren.
Her services will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 4, at St. Mary’s, 225 N. Washington Ave., Centralia. A graveside service will follow at Grand Mound Cemetery, 6300 183rd Ave., Rochester. A gathering will follow the graveside at the Golden Estates Clubhouse, at 1918 Harrison Ave., Centralia, Washington.
