Camano, Washington - Patricia Anne Welch (DuRuz) Schanzenbach, died peacefully at her Camano Island home on 12/29/20 at age 89. Pat is survived by her husband of 10 years, Walter. She was the proud mother of 7 children, and had 15 grandchildren and 14 greats.

Born in Seattle, Patsy graduated from West Seattle High School class of '49. She attended Mills College in California on a trustee scholarship where she studied music. Patsy transferred to Seattle University on a music scholarship, was a member of Mu sigma and earned a Bachelor of Music degree, magna cum laude.

In 1953, Pat married James E. DuRuz (deceased) and together they raised their son and 6 daughters in the same house on Capitol Hill where Pat grew up. Decades of family life were filled with music as Pat played viola in the Seattle Symphony under Milton Katims, and was an original member of the Lionettes strolling violinists at the famed Olympic Hotel Golden Lion room. Even more notable, Pat encouraged all 7 of her children to play instruments!

In 1971, Pat obtained her teaching certificate and Master of Arts in Teaching degree at UW, which launched her 30+ year career as a music teacher for Seattle Public Schools. She tirelessly led large band and orchestra programs, influenced the lives of thousands of students, and was consistently recognized for providing uplifting musical experiences. Upon her retirement in 1998, Pat and her then husband Jim moved to Camano Island where, after Jim's passing, she met and married her second husband, Walt.

Pat was a world traveler and avid swimmer and took dips in the waters of Spain, Greece, Yugoslavia, Bali, and Australia. She attended the Bolshoi Ballet in Russia, a flamenco master class at Amor de Dios in Spain, and a tango lesson in Brazil. She bundled up for the Iditarod, cheered at the Tour de France, and stood in awe at a Space Shuttle launch. A nature-lover at heart, Pat treasured her stunning tropical seashell collection and enjoyed bird watching. Above all, she loved camping, especially at her cherished Mt. Rainier.

Pat could both prepare a meal for 10 on a camp stove and dress to the nines to dine at the captain's table. Reading a good mystery novel, completing a challenging crossword, or listening to classical music was her definition of time well spent. She had a razor-sharp wit and had mastered the art of the corny joke. Pat's entire family knows where Napoleon kept his armies...up his little sleevies, of course! One of her favorite pastimes was browsing for knick-knacks and collectibles of all sorts and was even referred to as a "wise shopper" in the Capitol Hill Times. And lest we forget, she loved chocolate!

Patricia's family joins in celebrating her accomplished and abundant life. She will be lovingly remembered.