Patricia Ann Newcomb

Patricia Ann Newcomb, 77, died March 14, 2013, at Wickersham House in Wasilla.

Pat was born April 11, 1935, in Milaca County, Minn., to Arnold Robert and Hortense B. Carson. She was the youngest Colonist, at age 7 days, to leave Minnesota and travel to the Matanuska Valley in May 1935 as part of President Roosevelt’s “New Deal.”

Pat was raised on the family farm on Fairview Loop Road with her brothers, Jim and Mike, and her sister, Sally. She had many stories of farm life in the ’40s, sharing the good memories and hardships of the era. The work ethic and farm skills carried through in her own life as she gardened and raised animals, passing these values on to her children and grandchildren. Pat often shared the bounty from her garden and eggs from her chickens with friends, family and those in need.

Pat married Harold S. Newcomb on Dec. 19, 1953. They lived in Wasilla and raised four children: Kurt, Randy, Niki and Robin.

Pat spent her life caring for her family and others. She was a foster mother, a teacher’s aide at Iditarod Elementary and a host parent for foreign exchange students. She was involved in many community activities. She was a Selective Service Board member. Pat was directly involved in the development of the Alaska Crippled Children’s Association thrift store growing into The Treasure Loft, now known as Turn A Leaf. Pat was a Master Gardener and founding member of the Valley Garden Club, serving as president for several terms. She could often be found at the Alaska State Fair judging entries and helping with displays.

Preceding her in death was her father, Arnold R. Carson; mother, Hortense B. Carson; grandson, Alexander R. Newcomb; and husband of 50 years, Harold S. Newcomb.

Surviving are her children, Kurt Newcomb (Jeannette), Randy Newcomb (Mary), Niki Taysom and Robin Ouellette (Larry); grandchildren, Michael Newcomb, Rebecca Newcomb, Jessica and Jentry Crain, Ben and Kim Newcomb, Tracey Dunsmoor, Ely and Sierra Taysom, Jesse Taysom, Sam Ouellette and Suzanne Ouellette; seven great-grandchildren; and her siblings, Jim Carson, Mike Carson and Sally Karabelnikoff.

No services are planned at Pat’s request. A party to celebrate her life is planned at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, send memorial donations to The Valley Garden Club or The Alzheimer’s Association of Alaska.

Pat wanted to be remembered by the following quote: “What you saw, was what you got.”

Arrangements are with Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel and Crematory.