Patricia Kruse was born on August 14, 1946, in Estherville, Iowa, to Rex and Mary (Clymer) Anderson. She passed away on August 22, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska.
Patricia graduated from Gruver High School, Class of 1964, and went on to earn her degree in nursing from Iowa Lakes Community College. She worked as a registered nurse and was a warm, intelligent, independent woman who was ahead of her time. Patricia had a love for life, adventure, fashion, and decorating her home. She enjoyed baking homemade bread and took pride in creating a beautiful and welcoming home. She will be remembered for her wonderful laugh, quick wit, warmth, and unmistakable sense of style. Family was very important to Patricia. She loved visiting family in Oregon and Alaska and treasured spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her faith in Jesus Christ was an important part of her life. Patricia made her home in Bellevue, Washington, before retiring to Harlingen, Texas.
She is survived by her four children: Curt Woodyard and his spouse, Beth, of Florence, Oregon; Christine Thurman of Mapleton, Oregon; Chad Woodyard of North Bend, Oregon; and Cara Campanella and her spouse, Michael, of Kenai, Alaska. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Diana Reiter and Susie Jensen, and Susie’s spouse, Mike Jensen, all of Estherville, Iowa; along with many beloved nieces and nephews.
Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Rex and Mary Anderson, her brother Rex Anderson Jr. (Rexy), and her brother-in-law, Joe Reiter.
Patricia will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Her laughter, love of family, faith, and the memories she leaves behind will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.
