Patricia A. (Elzea) Leek

     Patricia Ann Elzea (Croner) Leek, 97, passed away on March 29th 2020 at her son's home in Twin Falls, Idaho.

     Patricia was born in Everett, Washington in January 3rd 1923, the 4th of 6 children born to Arch Reuben Elzea and Louise Otalee (Michel) Elzea. She was the last member of that generation to leave us.

     Patricia married Ralph Warner Croner in November 1942. They made their home in Lake Stevens, Washington, and raised 5 children: Penelope (Croner) Reedy, Shelly (Croner) Reedy, Matthew Croner (Janet), Brian Croner (Lynette), and Suzanne Croner. She married Norman Leek in June 1973. They made their home at Norman's ranch north of Fairfield, Idaho. She was preceded in death by daughters Shelly and Suzanne, as well as her second husband, Norman.

     During World War II she worked at Boeing Aircraft bucking rivets on wing panels for B-17 and the B-29 Super Fortress bombers. She also worked at an office at a shipyard in Seattle where she operated a “comptometer”, a precursor to computer technology.

     She was a beloved figure in Fairfield, known by everyone as Gramma Pat. She had 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews who all loved her dearly. She taught all the children good manners, and how to set a table properly via elegant tea parties with china cups.

     She was also famous for turning cartwheels, eating large amounts of Milky Way candy bars, and getting everyone to laugh. Her 4th of July parties were enjoyed by family, friends, and shirttail cousins alike.

     Patricia was an artist. One of her works that was made into prints featured a past and present portrait of the town of Fairfield, Idaho. She was also proud of the etched glass doors she designed for Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Lake Stevens, Washington, where she was a member before moving to Idaho. She was pleased that in her later years she had her own studio to work in and that she had time to teach her great grandchildren to draw and paint.

     Patricia requested no formal funeral services. She asked to be remembered with love and laughter. Our family and friends will organize a gathering when health and safety permits to spread her ashes as she requested.

     Cremation arrangements are under the care and direction of Demaray Funeral Service – Gooding Chapel.

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