WOODLAND – Irene Annie (Erickson) Patrick, 84, died July 25, 2013, surrounded by family in Caribou. She was born May 2, 1929, in New Sweden, the second of eight children to Oscar and Bertha (Anderson) Erickson.
Irene married her best friend, Clayton Patrick, Nov. 22, 1950. They raised two children and farmed potatoes on the New Sweden Road in Woodland. As a young girl, Irene’s mother was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Still a young girl herself, Irene became like a second mother to her six younger siblings, a remarkable feat. She was a tireless worker, actively involved in running the farm. Together, Irene and Clayton still planted potatoes well into their late 70s and operated one of the last remaining hand crews in Aroostook County. Many kids over many years will recall picking potatoes for them. She was proud of her Scandinavian heritage and enjoyed speaking Swedish. She was an active and devoted member of Gustaf Adolph Lutheran Church, where she enjoyed baking and participating in the activities of the church. Irene enjoyed bowling in a women’s league in Caribou for many years and won many trophies. For decades Irene and Clayton quietly volunteered their time distributing food through a local food bank to those in need. Irene was a renowned cook. She was famous for her strawberry rhubarb and apple pies, cinnamon rolls, fudge, and every cookie imaginable. She was happiest spending time with her large extended family at birthday parties and holidays.
Mrs. Patrick was predeceased by her parents; loving brothers, Oscar Jr., William, Richard and Frederick; and dear sister, Shirley. Irene is survived by her husband of 62 years, Clayton, who lovingly cared for her in her later years; son, Duane of Woodland; daughter, Carmen of Bangor; sister, Janet of New Sweden; sister, Patsy and husband, Dick, of Caribou; sister-in-law, Janet of Colorado Springs, Colo.; and sister-in-law and special friend, Virginia of Bangor. She will also be sadly missed and remembered by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, great-great-nephews, cousins and friends. In recent times Irene found great joy spending time with her great-niece, Kate, and great-nephews, Jack and Ethan Bechtel.
Friends may call 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, at Mockler Funeral Home, 24 Reservoir St., Caribou. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 31, at Gustaf Adolph Lutheran Church, New Sweden, with Father Robert Smith officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to help with funeral expenses. Friends who wish to contribute in memory of Irene may do so through G.A. Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 54, New Sweden, ME 04762. www.mocklerfuneralhome.com.
Irene Annie (Erickson) Patrick
