Early in the morning hours of April 25, 2015, our sweet mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, surrounded by her family, quietly slipped away from the mortal bonds of pain and suffering she had so valiantly endured for so many years, anxious to reunite with loved ones who had gone before her. Our hearts are broken but we are comforted knowing that Pat is once again, standing straight and tall with renewed strength and ability to continue her eternal path.
Patricia B. Shimmens was born on September 16, 1926, to Andrew J. Bowman and Mary B. Sheets in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her father, an Army physician, was transferred to several posts during her youth, but after his death the family returned to Salt Lake City, where she graduated from East High School, and the LDS Business School. While attending an Institute dance, she met a tall, curly-haired, Texan, named Malcolm Warner, and yes; they fell in love and were married June 8, 1950 in the Salt Lake Temple. Three years later, Mac developed cancer and died at the age of 29, leaving Pat a single mother to their 8-month old daughter, Michele. Six years later Pat met Sam W. Shimmens and after a year-long courtship they were married on October 1, 1960—a union lasting 49 years. Sam died on October 14, 2009.
Pat worked as an executive secretary in several industries where she was recognized and appreciated for her professionalism, hard work ethic and the positive influence she exhibited. She enjoyed her work experiences at Evans Advertising, U.S. Steel Public Relations, and the U. of U., retiring as the executive assistant to the Dean of Students. Needless to say, Pat was a die-hard Ute supporter.
Pat had a strong testimony of the Lord, which sustained her through all of the trials and challenges she experienced during her life. She served faithfully in all of her church callings, especially enjoying her time as a Temple Ordinance Worker and Assistant Supervisor at the Jordan River Temple. She led by example and was a role-model and mentor to everyone. She loved her family with all her heart and was so proud of their accomplishments. She was "Grandma Patty" to her great-grandchildren, whom she adored and had a special relationship with each one of them. But her biggest legacy to her family and friends was the unconditional love, acceptance and service she showed to all. Her outer grace and beauty were secondary to the caring and loving influence felt by anyone lucky enough to know her. Pat's family bound by genetics was small, but her family by choice was extensive. She truly believed that "friends are the family we choose for ourselves".
She is survived by her daughters, Michele (Walter) Ludlow and Juli Lish, granddaughters, Lauren (Curtis) Cox and Morgan Carlson, great grandchildren, Camden, Sophie and Chloe Cox, and sister-in-law, Ruth Williams. Preceded in death by her parents, husbands, Malcolm Warner and Sam Shimmens, sister, Connie Constande, son, Michael Andrew Shimmens, and brother-in-law, Jack Williams.
Thanks to Jarrod and staff at Pioneer Comprehensive, and the Huntsman Cancer Institute for their loving care over the years. Special thanks to AFI Home Care and Hospice, R.N., Jeff, for his kind and supportive end of life care.
Viewing will be held on Friday evening from 6:00-8:00 pm at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. Dimple Dell Rd. (10600 S.) Sandy. Services will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2015 at 11:00 am at the Crescent 16thWard, 275 E. 10600 So. with a visitation from 9:30-10:45 am prior to the services. Interment will follow at the Salt Lake City Cemetery.
