When we learned of Pat's death, Nancy Albright sent a very nice e-mail about shared memories dating back to elementary school. What struck me was Nancy's comment about Pat's leadership ability in high school. I've always been curious about the meaning of "high school leadership," but from personal observation, the adult Pat Sain Smith that I knew was a most impressive leader. She had vision, organizational skills, attention to detail and, perhaps most importantly, the willingness to accept responsibility.

 

Through the years since graduation, our class has regularly enjoyed great reunions. We can thank a small cadre of women including Pat and Nancy who recognized the importance of reunions... and who have provided us with a $5,000 savings account for our 50th Reunion. These two women also deserve credit for their monthly breakfast get-together that have evolved into the "All 1950s Grads" breakfasts at Coco's. Through these get-togethers, Pat continues to touch people she didn't even know.

 

Pat devoted her life to her family, but she also had a framing business. She was a woman of style with a fine sense of design. She was a classy woman. You don't often hear a high school student described as such, but she was a classy girl. Classmates have sent e-mail remembering how Pat framed their needlework, portraits, paintings, etc. A good frame enhances a work of art. I would liken Pat Sain Smith to a good frame... she made others look good. She was modest, mature and secure within herself. She didn't need headlines or applause; she was comfortable when things ran well. Pat left the glory for others.

 

In closing, an anecdote about Pat. Back when the Clairemont Village shopping center was still "the Quad," maybe even in the time of DeFalco's, I recognized Pat in the parking lot and said, "Hello." She had no idea who I was, but politely introduced me to her husband, Al. We hit it off right away talking about Wisconsin beer, baseball and politics. Poor Pat - it had to be like listening to a couple of Midwestern farmers jawing at the local grain elevator for her. She put up with us for at least a half hour. We said our good byes. That was when I learned she'd figured out who I was: Bill Rose.

 

Over the years, I got to know both Pat and Al quite well even though she later mistook me for Bill Rice. (She wasn't good on names.) I enjoyed long talks with Al about sports. He was full of enthusiasm, always with a smile on his face and a hearty laugh. Pat was much more serious, but they complemented one another well. They leave a wonderful family. Together, they instilled their values and character in their kids. I didn't get a chance to say good bye to Al, so I propose a toast to Al Smith with a bottle of Point Beer or Lienenkugel's... and a big Ricearoni hug for Pat.