On August 22, 2021 Heaven opened wide its door to Patricia Wiker of Ventura, CA. There she was welcomed into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was born on April 17, 1920, to William Howard and Pearl Ada Taylor in East Liverpool, Ohio. The family moved to Ventura, where Patricia attended Ventura High School.
When her family arrived in Ventura County in 1930, Patricia fondly recalled the farms and orchards. She frequently rode her horse, “Bessie” to school and tied her to a post outside.
She attended a one room schoolhouse near Lake Sherwood in Thousand Oaks.
Throughout her lifetime, Patricia was characterized by her love of moral and aesthetic beauty, by her steadfast devotion to her family and friends, and by her generous and hospitable nature. She loved people, and accepted others as they were. She was grateful for everything done for her. Those who knew her will fondly remember her twinkling blue eyes, and her beautiful smile.
She and her husband Robert, founding partner of Tolman and Wiker Insurance, were married 69 years and were members of La Estrella and Ventura Dance Club. She and Bob traveled the world extensively, and enjoyed trips to Carmel, La Jolla, and Newport Beach.
Patricia was actively involved in the community and joined I-Dakas, wives of men in Lions Club, crafts groups, Ventura Botanical Gardens (VBG), and she was active with Children’s Home Society. She and Bob generously supported the Ventura Pier Restoration and Community Memorial Hospital, VBG and the Reagan Library.
She was also engaged in efforts to bring beauty into her home through flower arranging, gardening, sewing, crafts, cooking and welcoming many guests. She played the piano, and was fond of music, and performing arts.
She was a long-time member of the Ventura Missionary Church. She grew in her faith in Christ through active study in Bible Study Fellowship and by dealing with the conditions of her Multiple Sclerosis. Her trust in God empowered her to always be an inspiration to those who knew her. Her courage, determination and perseverance characterized her life. She never complained about the limitations she faced. One of her mottos was, “This, too, shall pass.” In her final moments, Patricia heard Psalms read by loved ones, and comforting worship songs being sung to her.
Her character lives on in her daughter Carol Cole, husband Bob, grandchildren, Richard, Michael and his wife Cheryl, and Patricia and Jeff Cowan, great grandchildren David, Kalen, Kelsey and Gabriella. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob, parents William and Pearl Taylor, her brothers Bill, Joe, and Dick, nephew Dennis and niece Pam.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ventura Botanical Gardens, PO Box 3127, Ventura, CA 93008-3127 or the charity of your choice.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to Rosette and Roy Beltran for the exceptional and loving care they gave to Patricia. Rosette’s tender care enriched her life. A graveside service will be held September 2, at 2 PM, Ivy Lawn, with Pastor Leonard DeWitt officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.