Obituary of Pat Reader

Pat Reader was a lifetime resident of California. She was born on August 18, 1947, in Grass Valley, California. Pat spent her childhood in Nevada City, CA where she lived with her parents and 4 siblings. At the start of her freshman year her family relocated to Big Basin State Park where she attended San Lorenzo Valley High School. She had so many fond memories of her times living in Big Basin amongst the Redwoods and wildlife while attending SLV. It was during this time that she met her future husband Wally Reader and would soon marry him after graduating. Wally had a son from a previous marriage and Pat relished being a stepmom to Phil Reader. Wally and Pat moved to Santa Cruz and after a few years settled into their home in Happy Valley where they have lived for the last 50+ years. After several years they welcomed their daughter Angie into their family. Having a child was Pat’s greatest wish and she lavished love on her daughter. She went out of her way to make her childhood special, her friends feel loved, and to make sure that Angie had every possible opportunity afforded her. This love carried on throughout all of her life. She was a homemaker for many years and then the opportunity came for her to share her love to children with special needs. She worked as an instructional aide for over 25 years touching the lives of countless children. She was there for not only the students she taught but those that came to visit her on their recess. At the time of her death, she was still in touch with many of her students. As Angie grew and got married Pat gained another title in her life. This one was her favorite “Gammy”. She had four grandchildren who were her pride and joy. There was not a day that went by that she was not in touch with one of them. She enjoyed spending time so much with her family that she went to work at the family business so she could be surrounded by them. There she was known by all the staff as Gammy as well. She made buttons and birthday cards for all the students that came through the gym. Often, she could be found talking with some staff member who was having a hard day giving them an ear to listen and words of encouragement. What people remember Pat for besides her kindness, and love for her family, is a witty sense of humor and a beautiful smile. Pat is survived by her Husband; Wally Reader of 57 years; her Children; Angie Lackey (Nate Lackey), Phil Reader (Karell Reader), Grandchildren; Caitlin Lackey, Taylor Lackey, Garrett Lackey, Olivia Lackey, and Sammie Rogers. Siblings; George Peat, David Peat, Nancy Peat And numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father; Henry Peat, Mother; June Peat, and Brother; James Peat Services will be held on Friday, December 8 at 11:00am, Twin Lakes Church, 2701 Cabrillo College Drive, Aptos, CA 95003. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her honor to St. Jude’s Hospital.