Surrounded by loving family, Patricia (Pat) Van de Brake passed away on March 10, 2012. Born to James and Lillian Brain at their home in Thorp, WA March 21, 1919 her early childhood days were busy riding horses, dancing, and reading. Pat graduated from Thorp High School in 1937. She attended the University of Washington and Central Washington University. Afterward she became the first female executive secretary for Western Gear Works in Seattle. Pat married Earl (Van) Van de Brake on November 7, 1941. They resided in Seattle until Earl left for WWII and Pat returned home to Thorp. Together they lived and worked in Thorp, raising seven children, before moving to Conway in 1991. Pat worked as a clerk at the Thorp Post Office prior to being appointed Postmaster in 1973 until her retirement in 1983. She followed the footsteps of her mother who served as Postmaster for 40 years. Mom's life revolved around her family, the Post Office, the Thorp Fire Department, the school, her church, and close family friends, the Finneys. Pat loved to ski, play softball, and dance. When the family was young, she often joined in fishing and hunting trips and picnics at the family property in Liberty, WA. Once the kids became involved in various school activities, Pat and Van were devoted to parent participation in any and every way possible. After the kids were all out on their own, Van and Pat enjoyed traveling, fishing, clam digging, mushroom hunting, and especially time with grandchildren. Pat was an avid and loyal Mariners fan. She eagerly looked forward to casino outings with family and friends. She also enjoyed watching the beautiful gifts nature presented her right outside her front window such as birds, deer, clouds in many shapes and sizes, and especially the amazing sunsets. Mom's family was central to her life. She is survived by three sons and their spouses, Gary and Kathy, Brooke and Charlotte, and Phil and Linda, three daughters and their spouses, Patti and Ross, Tamara and Glen, and Lisa and Dean, 13 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, and close friends, Gregg and Nancy Finney. Pat was preceded in death by her husband Earl and their very special daughter Cheryl. Graveside services will be held at Cedar Lawns Memorial Park, 7200 180th Ave NE in Redmond, Washington, 98052 on Friday March 16, at 1:00 pm. A memorial Mass will follow at a later date in Ellensburg, Washington. Memorials may be made to the Conway Fire Department, Conway, WA or Kittitas Fire District #1, Thorp, WA.