Patricia Arrera

It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Patricia "Pat" Arrera on October 3, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on March 22, 1946, in Cedar City, Utah, Pat peacefully left this world at home, surrounded by the love of her family, after a courageous 30-year battle with cancer. Patricia was the cherished daughter of the late Philip and Elizabeth Colvin. She was predeceased by her beloved 16 year old daughter Kimberly in 1983, a loss that deeply marked her life. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Charles "Chuck" Arrera with whom she shared 60 wonderful years of marriage, having wed on June 11, 1966, in Seattle, Washington. Pat was the proud mother of her daughter Kim, son Jason Jay (wife Misty), and the adoring grandmother of three treasured grandchildren: Nate, Kate, and Jameson. Her family was the center of her world, and she took immense joy in their love and achievements. A graduate of Ballard High School in Seattle, Pat pursued higher education with vigor, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Development from Oregon State University and a Master's degree in Art Education from Western Oregon University. Her career began as a Preschool Director in Corvallis, Oregon, but her true vocation was as an art educator and artist. Pat's passion for art was unparalleled, and she found joy in both teaching and creating. She was a gifted artist, especially known for her ceramic masks, which are permanently displayed at the Hult Center for the Performing Arts in Eugene Oregon. Her works are also part of numerous private collections. In 1995, Pat and Chuck embarked on a new adventure, moving to the Territory of American Samoa. There, Pat continued to inspire as an art teacher at the local community college, while Chuck was an engineer for the American Samoa Power Authority. Pat was an active and beloved member of the Unity of the Valley congregation in Eugene since 1994, where she found spiritual connection and a supportive community. Pat was known for her radiant smile and warm nature. She thrived in intimate settings, surrounded by her family, friends, her art community and book group. Her love for travel took her to many wondrous places, including Fiji, Tonga, New Zealand, Beliez, Mexico, China, Greece, Germany, Egypt, Jordan and Italy. She was an avid cyclist highlighted by a Bike and Barge trip to Holland. Pat was a passionate reader, with interests ranging from science fiction, biographies and spiritual growth. The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate care provided by her Hospice team, particularly Thania and Jasmin, as well as her dedicated in-home caregivers Kathleen, Krista, Suzette and McKenzie who were instrumental in supporting Chuck in Pat's care. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Patricia's memory to Unity of the Valley in Eugene, The Fistula Foundation or Water for People. A gathering of Pat's family and friends for a celebration of her life will be held in early 2027. Patricia Arrera's legacy is one of love, creativity, and resilience. Her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.