Patricia (Bowen) Sullivan

Beloved wife, mother, and grandmother Patricia Bowen Sullivan went home to God at age 74 on December 28, 2021.

Predeceased by her parents, William and Patricia Bowen. She is survived by her devoted husband, Patrick Sullivan, her children, Michael (Natalie Monk) and Meredith Sullivan, and grandchildren, Meara and Grayson Sullivan, as well as her two sisters, Meredith Phillips and Linda Lewis.

Born in Evanston, Illinois, September 11, 1947, Patricia grew up in Dallas, Texas, where she graduated valedictorian from Hillcrest High School in 1965. She made the Monterey Bay her home after earning two degrees in Communications and Nursing from Stanford University where she was awarded Phi Beta Kappa in her junior year.

Following her early work as a journalist, Patricia's career as a registered nurse led to her working with early heart transplant patients of Dr. Norman Shumway at Stanford Hospital, then in post-anesthesia care at Watsonville Hospital, as well as assisting expectant mothers in childbirth preparation.

After her children's infancy, Patricia became an accountant and worked in tax and small business accountancy. She was also an active volunteer at her children's schools.

A lifelong artist in a variety of media, Patricia specialized in watercolor still lifes and landscapes, many of which grace the walls of her friends and families. She was also known for her colorful and beautifully designed quilts.

Her dedication to education and self-improvement extended through her entire life. She took up Mandarin at the age of 72 and studied it faithfully every day until she died.

Published in The Pajaronian · January 27, 2022