Patricia "Patti" Roberts passed away peacefully Friday, June 6th, 2008 at Kadlec Hospital in Richland, WA, surrounded by loving family members. Patti was 79.

Patti was born July 30, 1928 to Robert and Gwen Flaherty in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. From a young age it became apparent that Patti was blessed with natural musical and artistic talent, as well as a witty sense of humor and dynamic personality. During high school, she sang on a live radio show at age 17.

Following high school, Patti's singing talent was discovered by famed talent scout Johnny Olsen. After Mr. Olsen sent a demo to New York, Patti was selected to replace Doris Day as lead singer for the popular Big Band Les Brown and Band of Renown. Patti was becoming a national Big Band singer, and was soon asked to join The Trumpet Player Big Band of Harry James. In addition to singing, Patti continued to express herself creatively as a gifted writer, poet, and artist.

After meeting her life-long love R.C. Roberts in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Patti was married in 1950 and started her family. Patti and R.C. raised three children in Anderson, Indiana, before moving to the Tri-Cities in 1975 where R.C. had a 25-year career as a real estate agent. Throughout her life, Patti volunteered her time at organizations such as Hospice, the Pink Lady Hospital Program, and The Veterans Mental Health Hospital. Patti was also very active in the Meadow Springs Country Club and the Richland Lutheran Church. She continued to share her musical talent by singing and entertaining locally.

Patti is survived by her husband, R.C.; her son Mike of Lapel, Indiana; son Jeff and his wife Sandy of Indianapolis; daughter Peggy Barnes of Richland; and loving grandchildren Tana, Brooke, and Evan. Patti was loved so deeply by her family and friends.

Memorial services will be held at Richland Lutheran Church at 901 Van Giesen in Richland, WA on Saturday, June 14th, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. Good and trusted pastor Bill Martens will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Patti's memory to Tri-City Gospel Mission, 425 W. Lewis, Pasco, WA 99301; or Good News Media Ministry, Care of: Richland Lutheran Church., 901 Van Giesen, Richland, WA 99354.