Patricia Paapanen

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Patricia "Patsy" "Pat" Paapanen peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by loving family members, on Sunday, February 15, 2015, following a four-month illness.

Patsy was born January 24, 1937 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina to Robert and Mavis Patten. She grew up in Winston-Salem and graduated from R.J. Reynolds High School. She attended Salem College, which led her to her life-long love, William "Bill" Paapanen, her family and over 40 years of teaching.

Patsy met Bill while teaching in Hawaii and they married on March 23, 1964 in Memphis, Tennessee (over Spring Break), and he survives her. They moved to Joplin in 1976. She was a dedicated teacher with the Joplin R-8 School District, mainly teaching 4th and 5th grades at the Jefferson Elementary School, retiring in 2002. She cared deeply about her numerous students throughout her career.

Patricia was preceded in death by her mother and father, brother, Robert A. Patten, Jr., sister, Margie Patten Speights, and her beloved daughter, Kimberley Anne Paapanen. Patricia is also survived by her loving daughter, Kris Paapanen of Joplin, five nephews, Charles Marrow, James Marrow, Robert A. Patten III, John Patten, Eric Paapanen, and 3 nieces; Patricia Marrow, Mary Beth Griffin, and Shannon Paapanen, and many grand-nieces and nephews, and the many children who bestow on her the title of "Grandma".

A celebration of her life reception will take place from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday at the family home, 2122 Laura Lane in Joplin. Patsy will be cremated. Memorial contributions are requested to Art Feeds/Joplin in care of the Mortuary. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mason-Woodard Mortuary and Crematory of Joplin, Mo.