After a brief illness, Pat Richards died peacefully at home Oct. 29, 2008, with Jack, her husband of 42 years, and dearest friend Myrtle Walls, holding her hands.

Born March 21, 1931, and raised in Port Angeles, she is survived by her husband Jack Richards, daughter Judy Gabler and son-in-law Jon Gabler of Maple Valley.

A longtime Vashon resident, Richards loved the Island and, through her work at Pandora’s Box, Vashon Pharmacy and WKMG Knitting Source, met many people she counted as friends.

She dearly loved to make shopping at Thriftway a social event, friends and family reported.

Her book club enjoyed her humor and insights. Richards was always ready to lend a hand or move mountains when help was needed, and her love of people and generosity with her time and effort were appreciated, family members said.

She loved her crafts, reading, cooking for a crowd and her feline companions: Boomer, Dynamite, Cici and BB.

At her request there will be no funeral or memorial. Donations to Vashon Island Pet Protectors would be welcome as remembrances.