2 tbs olive oil
1 med yellow skinned onion chopped
1 red pepper chopped
1 green pepper chopped
1 lg jalapeno pepper chopped (keep the seeds for
hotness)
4 cloves garlic crushed and chopped
1 cup vegetable broth
1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
1 chopped tomato
1 can (14 oz) black beans
1 can dark red kidney beans
1 tbs ground cumin
2 tbs chili powder
1 cup spicy vegetarian refried beans
Adobo seasoning
Toppings: Cheddar cheese, corn tortilla chips
Over moderate heat, add oil to a deep pot. add onion,
peppers,and garlic, saute 3-5 min. add tomatoes & left
soften. add broth, black beans red kidney beans and
stir 10-15 min. add adobo seasoning to taste. Add
cumin & chili powder. Stir in refried beans. simmer
over low heat 5-10 min
Friday, February 29, 2008
My Turn
I think the best thing about Trish for me was how genuinely happy she was for me when good things came along, and she always recognized my worth and pushed me to get what she knew I deserved in life. To have a friend that supportive is rare. She was my best friend. I wanted her to be my maid of honor at my wedding. In the short time I knew her, she gave a lifetimes worth of love, knowledge, support and care. She is in so many things in my life right now and her memory will live on in so many positive ways. I just made her famous vegetarian 3 bean chili last week. I just read the journal entry about the time she killed a cockroach with her huge timberland boot in our Brooklyn apartment. Her blue sweater is in my closet. I used the bathmat she gave me this morning. I am starting a new job next Monday because she pushed me to be the best I can be. “I knew they would see your talent” she said, “Now don’t be afraid to ask for the salary you deserve!” You see, getting the job of my dreams wasn’t enough… Trish had to push me even further. I’m a better person because Patricia has graced my life, and in her passing and hearing so many stories about her from the ones whom she touched the most, I’ve learned so many more life lessons that I’m a changed person. My heart goes out to The Parker and Williams Family.
Adria Taricani
Adria Taricani
Compiled emils from Trish's Friends
:::Here a few email corespondences with Trish's friends I had after informing them of her passing. They shared heart-warming stories and I feel it made being the messenger of such terrible news somehow easier::::
I'm truly sorry for the lost. I met Trish at Pratt in architecture school. She and I lived on the same floor in brooklyn and we have several classes together. She was a beautiful person inside and out and an overachiever. She will definitely be missed. Please, if you would not mind, I will keep her family and friends in my prayers. ~ Simon See
***************************************************
I was not as close to Trish as some, but know that she had a lot of life left to live. We went to Pratt together, I can still see her smile and hear her laugh in my very recent memory. I am so sorry for your loss, and the eternal reverberation this will have in the lives of her family and closest friends.
Some small part of her does live on in my memory. My time at Pratt was brighter, better and far more bearable because of Patricia Parker.
Best,
Marley Sutton
*****************************************************
I am so sorry to hear that Trish has passed away - I'm kind of at a loss for words. She was a good friend of mine in high school and we both attended college in New York and tried to meet up every now and then. She was definitely one of the most beautiful, intelligent, and determined girls I knew. She was so independent and strong - it's tough to imagine that she's no longer with us. I hadn't spoken to her in so long. It's hard to find reason in losing such an amazing person.
My deepest condolences are with Trish's family and close friends.
Warm Regards,
Nirali Shah
******************************************************
I had lunch with one of my friends who knew trish this afternoon. It was quite nice to sit and talk about silly memories and look at old pictures. i don't know about you, but i'm having a hard time right now because i see her in everything. so much of my current apartment stuff is stuff we had when we lived together. even the snow on the ground is a reminder of how she introduced me to seasons! being from california and all, i had to learn how to make a snowball. she told me about how you guys played in the snow too, in fact, she talked about you a lot. she had a lot of fond memories of when you lived in that dingy old apt with her. she never was one for unnecessary friendships, but the friends she had, she held dear. oh god, how i miss her. ~ Jen Jacobi
*****************************************************
I was this too timid, awkwardly shy girl in high school. I became friends with Trish my Junior year, and couldn't help but notice how confident she was and how little she cared about others' impression of her. She was probably the prettiest girl in the class and didn't care to be "miss popular" because it would require filtering what she had to say and how she acted. I think part of the reason I changed that year and gained so much confidence in myself was through being friends with Trish. I was able to let go of my inhibitions and stop being so self conscious about everything. I will always remember Trish for showing me how liberating it is to just be yourself.
Nirali Shah
I'm truly sorry for the lost. I met Trish at Pratt in architecture school. She and I lived on the same floor in brooklyn and we have several classes together. She was a beautiful person inside and out and an overachiever. She will definitely be missed. Please, if you would not mind, I will keep her family and friends in my prayers. ~ Simon See
***************************************************
I was not as close to Trish as some, but know that she had a lot of life left to live. We went to Pratt together, I can still see her smile and hear her laugh in my very recent memory. I am so sorry for your loss, and the eternal reverberation this will have in the lives of her family and closest friends.
Some small part of her does live on in my memory. My time at Pratt was brighter, better and far more bearable because of Patricia Parker.
Best,
Marley Sutton
*****************************************************
I am so sorry to hear that Trish has passed away - I'm kind of at a loss for words. She was a good friend of mine in high school and we both attended college in New York and tried to meet up every now and then. She was definitely one of the most beautiful, intelligent, and determined girls I knew. She was so independent and strong - it's tough to imagine that she's no longer with us. I hadn't spoken to her in so long. It's hard to find reason in losing such an amazing person.
My deepest condolences are with Trish's family and close friends.
Warm Regards,
Nirali Shah
******************************************************
I had lunch with one of my friends who knew trish this afternoon. It was quite nice to sit and talk about silly memories and look at old pictures. i don't know about you, but i'm having a hard time right now because i see her in everything. so much of my current apartment stuff is stuff we had when we lived together. even the snow on the ground is a reminder of how she introduced me to seasons! being from california and all, i had to learn how to make a snowball. she told me about how you guys played in the snow too, in fact, she talked about you a lot. she had a lot of fond memories of when you lived in that dingy old apt with her. she never was one for unnecessary friendships, but the friends she had, she held dear. oh god, how i miss her. ~ Jen Jacobi
*****************************************************
I was this too timid, awkwardly shy girl in high school. I became friends with Trish my Junior year, and couldn't help but notice how confident she was and how little she cared about others' impression of her. She was probably the prettiest girl in the class and didn't care to be "miss popular" because it would require filtering what she had to say and how she acted. I think part of the reason I changed that year and gained so much confidence in myself was through being friends with Trish. I was able to let go of my inhibitions and stop being so self conscious about everything. I will always remember Trish for showing me how liberating it is to just be yourself.
Nirali Shah
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Patricia Parker Memorial
Patricia was our inspired leader during our CAN-struction build this past year. In her memory, please consider making a contribution to the Food bank of Southeastern Virginia.
For financial contributions, there are three methods for making donations:
1. Write a letter including your mailing address with "In Memory of Patricia Parker", mail it with your check, made out to Food bank of Southeastern Virginia, to 800 Tidewater Drive, Norfolk VA 23510
2. Sign onto the website, http://www.foodbankonline.org/index.html, click on the "Donate Now" button, follow instructions for Giving Cart, making sure to fill in the Dedication or Gift line with "In Memory of Patricia Parker"
3. Call 877-486-4379 to use your Credit card over the phone, specifying that your donation is "In Memory of Patricia Parker"
Also, for those who wish to make a Food donation, I will be picking up a barrel from the Food bank at the end of this week. The barrel will be located in the Knowledge Cafe at the office of HEWV. For the next 40 days, we will have the opportunity to remember Patricia during our grocery shopping. Please review the "top 10" most needed items as listed on the Foodbank website, http://www.foodbankonline.org/top_ten.html
At the conclusion of 40 days, I will deliver the food to the Food bank, and request a record of the dollars and the pounds donated in her memory. This information will be posted to the blog. We will also send a letter with all the details to Patricia's family. I hope you will join me in making a contribution in her memory. Please feel free to email me at jnorgren@hewv.com with any questions.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
One of a Kind
The loss of this unforgettable person is touching the lives of many, many people. I first notice that there was something more than special about Patricia when she and her husband, along with all of the interns, came to my house for a summer cookout and beach day. I was stricken by her kindness and eagerness to help in preparations. I later learned that she was always eager to help anyone in need. About a year ago, I was having trouble with my feet. Patricia brought in special foot lotions, salts and assorted medications. She would call and check on me to see how I was feeling. She would even send me emails reminding me to take care of myself. She had a huge heart for those around her and she loved others with her actions.
As I was getting to know Patricia, I asked her what name she like to go by. She responded "anything but Patty". So of course, I had to occasionally call her "Patty" just her hear her say "NO! Jimmy NO!". She always knew how to make those around her laugh. Knowing Patricia was a humbling experience and I will never be able to forget who she was, how she affected those around her with her eternal optimism, contagious laugh and abundant intelligence. The world around Patricia was and will forever remain changed and is a better place because she stopped here for a while along her travels through life. She is a precious soul and I am blessed to have known and experienced life with her in it.
As I was getting to know Patricia, I asked her what name she like to go by. She responded "anything but Patty". So of course, I had to occasionally call her "Patty" just her hear her say "NO! Jimmy NO!". She always knew how to make those around her laugh. Knowing Patricia was a humbling experience and I will never be able to forget who she was, how she affected those around her with her eternal optimism, contagious laugh and abundant intelligence. The world around Patricia was and will forever remain changed and is a better place because she stopped here for a while along her travels through life. She is a precious soul and I am blessed to have known and experienced life with her in it.
From the Virginian Pilot
Those wishing to sign the online guestbook can find it here.
Patricia Ruth Parker-Williams passed away suddenly and unexpectedly of natural causes Feb. 21, 2008. Patricia was born June 17, 1983, in Fort Lewis, Wash., to Major Joseph W. Parker, U.S. Army retired and Patricia Ann Parker. She lived the life of an Army family - travelling the world and having a full and exciting childhood. A scholar and athlete, she was a graduate of St. Mary's-Ryken High School in Maryland and the Pratt Institute School of Architecture in New York. After graduating from Pratt with honors, she moved to Virginia Beach where she was an architect intern with Hanbury, Evans, Wright, Vlattas and Company Architecture. She had been married for one year to Sgt. Christopher Brian Williams (U.S. Marine Corps) of Virginia Beach, currently assigned to the 2d Intelligence Battalion, Camp Fallujah, Iraq. Patricia was a loving, cheerful person whose enthusiasm for the positive side of life affected all around her. She was especially fond of children, who were naturally drawn to Patricia's vibrant personality and natural physical beauty. Patricia often volunteered to teach underprivileged children to read. At work she was an innovative, gifted architect and made contributions well in excess and expectations of newly-graduated architects. She was a natural, positive leader at her company and with their clients. She deeply loved her husband, and was planning a formal wedding for all their family and friends in May after Chris's return from Iraq. She loved cooking and cross stitching, and used her talents in those hobbies to make small gifts for her friends and coworkers to occasionally remind them that a token of care can make short work of life's drudgery. Patricia had only two facial expressions in her repertoire: a smile and look of deep thought. Both were amazingly infectious. Patricia was also extremely proud of her families' heritage and the career military service of her father, grandfather, husband and father-in-law in the defense of our country. Her father is chairman of the Board, CD3I International and her mother is a retired school teacher for the Clover Park School district in Lakewood, Wash. Besides her parents, Patricia is survived by her older sister, Laura Michele Parker, a financial aid officer for ITT in Boise, Idaho; her parents-in-law, Senior Chief Petty Officer Henry Williams Jr. U.S. Navy retired, an EMT for the city of Virginia Beach; and Arthier Gail Williams, a teacher's aide at Princess Anne Elementary School in Virginia Beach; two grandmothers, eight aunts and uncles, and a very large and grieved contingent of cousins, friends, coworkers and clients world-wide. A memorial celebration for Patricia will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday in Smith and Williams Funeral Home, 4889 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach. The funeral for the family will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday in the main chapel of the New Tacoma Cemetery, Chambers Creek Road, University Place, Washington.
Patricia Ruth Parker-Williams passed away suddenly and unexpectedly of natural causes Feb. 21, 2008. Patricia was born June 17, 1983, in Fort Lewis, Wash., to Major Joseph W. Parker, U.S. Army retired and Patricia Ann Parker. She lived the life of an Army family - travelling the world and having a full and exciting childhood. A scholar and athlete, she was a graduate of St. Mary's-Ryken High School in Maryland and the Pratt Institute School of Architecture in New York. After graduating from Pratt with honors, she moved to Virginia Beach where she was an architect intern with Hanbury, Evans, Wright, Vlattas and Company Architecture. She had been married for one year to Sgt. Christopher Brian Williams (U.S. Marine Corps) of Virginia Beach, currently assigned to the 2d Intelligence Battalion, Camp Fallujah, Iraq. Patricia was a loving, cheerful person whose enthusiasm for the positive side of life affected all around her. She was especially fond of children, who were naturally drawn to Patricia's vibrant personality and natural physical beauty. Patricia often volunteered to teach underprivileged children to read. At work she was an innovative, gifted architect and made contributions well in excess and expectations of newly-graduated architects. She was a natural, positive leader at her company and with their clients. She deeply loved her husband, and was planning a formal wedding for all their family and friends in May after Chris's return from Iraq. She loved cooking and cross stitching, and used her talents in those hobbies to make small gifts for her friends and coworkers to occasionally remind them that a token of care can make short work of life's drudgery. Patricia had only two facial expressions in her repertoire: a smile and look of deep thought. Both were amazingly infectious. Patricia was also extremely proud of her families' heritage and the career military service of her father, grandfather, husband and father-in-law in the defense of our country. Her father is chairman of the Board, CD3I International and her mother is a retired school teacher for the Clover Park School district in Lakewood, Wash. Besides her parents, Patricia is survived by her older sister, Laura Michele Parker, a financial aid officer for ITT in Boise, Idaho; her parents-in-law, Senior Chief Petty Officer Henry Williams Jr. U.S. Navy retired, an EMT for the city of Virginia Beach; and Arthier Gail Williams, a teacher's aide at Princess Anne Elementary School in Virginia Beach; two grandmothers, eight aunts and uncles, and a very large and grieved contingent of cousins, friends, coworkers and clients world-wide. A memorial celebration for Patricia will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday in Smith and Williams Funeral Home, 4889 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach. The funeral for the family will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday in the main chapel of the New Tacoma Cemetery, Chambers Creek Road, University Place, Washington.
The Rice Team
From India comes this photo of Patricia and her project team. The affection they all share is evident.
Jill and Enrique were 2007 summer interns at HEWV. They have forward the following in remembrance of Patricia - Kurt
Patricia was such an authentic person. In just a few months we saw how big her soul was, and not only her soul, but her talents and her dreams as well. Her caring nature and unwavering eagerness to help others helped us feel at home over the summer. Her potential was only beginning to be revealed.
She will continue living in the hearts, thoughts, and dreams of everyone she touched with her smile and enthusiasm.
We’ll miss you, Patricia.
- Jill and Enrique
Patricia was such an authentic person. In just a few months we saw how big her soul was, and not only her soul, but her talents and her dreams as well. Her caring nature and unwavering eagerness to help others helped us feel at home over the summer. Her potential was only beginning to be revealed.
She will continue living in the hearts, thoughts, and dreams of everyone she touched with her smile and enthusiasm.
We’ll miss you, Patricia.
- Jill and Enrique
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Memo from Virginia Tech
To the members of Hanbury Evans:
I just learned that you lost a valuable member of your firm, Patricia Parker last week. We, at Virginia Tech, know how painful that is and the College of Architecture and Urban Studies and I offer you and her family our most sincere condolences.
Jack
Jack Davis, FAIA, LEED
Reynolds Metals Professor and
Dean
College of Architecture and Urban Studies
I just learned that you lost a valuable member of your firm, Patricia Parker last week. We, at Virginia Tech, know how painful that is and the College of Architecture and Urban Studies and I offer you and her family our most sincere condolences.
Jack
Jack Davis, FAIA, LEED
Reynolds Metals Professor and
Dean
College of Architecture and Urban Studies
And From Patricia's Aunt Tricia
The following was in the comments section, I felt compelled to bring it out for all to share - Kurt
Trish, my beautiful, sweet, gentle niece. I cannot believe we have lost you. I can only hope that you know how much I LOVE YOU! The pain is very deep knowing you are not with us anymore and there will not be any future memories to come. How excited I am that you had found a special man to love with all of your heart. How happy I am that you could experience that love in this life.
"Sis" I feel peace in my heart knowing that you left this world and entered heaven escorted by only the best...BOTH Grandfathers.
I love you and miss you.
Aunt Tricia
Trish, my beautiful, sweet, gentle niece. I cannot believe we have lost you. I can only hope that you know how much I LOVE YOU! The pain is very deep knowing you are not with us anymore and there will not be any future memories to come. How excited I am that you had found a special man to love with all of your heart. How happy I am that you could experience that love in this life.
"Sis" I feel peace in my heart knowing that you left this world and entered heaven escorted by only the best...BOTH Grandfathers.
I love you and miss you.
Aunt Tricia
From Halfway Around the World
We received the following from Mahesh Chitnis, a colleague in India who recently helped us through a production crunch - Kurt
This is really shocking; I don’t have words to say this but this news has deeply moved me.
Well actually we were associated with her for a small time when we were at HEWV office, but Patricia was a source of inspiration when it came to understanding Revit. She was never tired of answering any of our questions. So was she helpful to make us understand the way of working at HEWV. Her loss cannot be filled; it shall be a scar on all of our memories…..a beautiful memory of this kind hearted, loving, dedicated, knowledgeable Girl!!
Please accept my deepest sympathies for her family, friends, and coworkers.
Mahesh Chitnis
This is really shocking; I don’t have words to say this but this news has deeply moved me.
Well actually we were associated with her for a small time when we were at HEWV office, but Patricia was a source of inspiration when it came to understanding Revit. She was never tired of answering any of our questions. So was she helpful to make us understand the way of working at HEWV. Her loss cannot be filled; it shall be a scar on all of our memories…..a beautiful memory of this kind hearted, loving, dedicated, knowledgeable Girl!!
Please accept my deepest sympathies for her family, friends, and coworkers.
Mahesh Chitnis
Monday, February 25, 2008
Peppermint
My dear peppermint,
It's been 4 days and I still can't believe you are gone. I keep expecting you to come up the stairs or off the elevator any second to give me an update on the flowers or on how Chris is doing. You will forever hold a very special place in my heart. Thank you for being such an AWESOME friend and for just being you. You were so beautiful and loving, so compassionate and understanding and truly had a presence about you that made everyone know that you were special and someone to treasure. I love you Patricia and I will miss you deeply. Thank you for the time that we had and for all the stories we shared and for the families that we love ;) !!
Rest in Peace my dear friend, one day we will meet again.
It's been 4 days and I still can't believe you are gone. I keep expecting you to come up the stairs or off the elevator any second to give me an update on the flowers or on how Chris is doing. You will forever hold a very special place in my heart. Thank you for being such an AWESOME friend and for just being you. You were so beautiful and loving, so compassionate and understanding and truly had a presence about you that made everyone know that you were special and someone to treasure. I love you Patricia and I will miss you deeply. Thank you for the time that we had and for all the stories we shared and for the families that we love ;) !!
Rest in Peace my dear friend, one day we will meet again.
From Patricia's Uncle Tim
Patricia's Uncle Tim left the following in the comments section on Day 1. The post has since been buried in an avalanche of memories, so I have brought it forward for all to share - Kurt
A precious soul and sweet spirit, Trish we'll miss you. Our family is deprived of a beautiful daughter, sister, niece, grand daughter and cousin. Heaven is far better off now.
Separated by the miles, business brought me to Norfolk. We met each other for dinner, although we had not seen each other in years. We searched in vain for a Thai restuarant, without luck and profuse apologies from you. We settled at a Cuban place and spent hours talking. We walked back to my downtown hotel, you showing me the sites and projects of your firm. I remember thinking to myself what a wonderful young woman you grew into; bright, confident and sweet. When told of your engagement I thought, "what a lucky stiff your fiance must be. He better treat you like a queen".
Memories will pour back on future visits to Norfolk, and I will always remember my sweet niece.
God bless you Trish, God bless.
A precious soul and sweet spirit, Trish we'll miss you. Our family is deprived of a beautiful daughter, sister, niece, grand daughter and cousin. Heaven is far better off now.
Separated by the miles, business brought me to Norfolk. We met each other for dinner, although we had not seen each other in years. We searched in vain for a Thai restuarant, without luck and profuse apologies from you. We settled at a Cuban place and spent hours talking. We walked back to my downtown hotel, you showing me the sites and projects of your firm. I remember thinking to myself what a wonderful young woman you grew into; bright, confident and sweet. When told of your engagement I thought, "what a lucky stiff your fiance must be. He better treat you like a queen".
Memories will pour back on future visits to Norfolk, and I will always remember my sweet niece.
God bless you Trish, God bless.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
benediction
Life is short and we do not have much time to gladden the hearts of those who travel the dark way with us.
So, be swift to love and make haste to be kind.
And may our love and care bring healing to our own lives, our community and our world;
And may God's love and peace be ours and be for all people everywhere, today and forever.
Henri-Frederic Amiel (adapted)
In her short time with us, oh how Patricia gladdened our hearts, in so many ways. As so many have written, hers was a presence of infectious cheer and joy, passion and drive, love and kindness. As we reel from her loss, may we indeed be swift to love and make haste to be kind – now in honor of Patricia, to carry on her memory in each kind action, each smile, each hand reaching out to help in love. Her sweet spirit has left us, but may our love and care in her memory bring healing.
So, be swift to love and make haste to be kind.
And may our love and care bring healing to our own lives, our community and our world;
And may God's love and peace be ours and be for all people everywhere, today and forever.
Henri-Frederic Amiel (adapted)
In her short time with us, oh how Patricia gladdened our hearts, in so many ways. As so many have written, hers was a presence of infectious cheer and joy, passion and drive, love and kindness. As we reel from her loss, may we indeed be swift to love and make haste to be kind – now in honor of Patricia, to carry on her memory in each kind action, each smile, each hand reaching out to help in love. Her sweet spirit has left us, but may our love and care in her memory bring healing.
A Member of our Family
Today we open our office to welcome the Parker family and the Williams family into Patricia’s professional world – but more importantly we open our hearts to them and to each other.
We are a strong team and we grieve so deeply because our team is a family and as Mike so perfectly stated in his note below to Team 3, the relationships we develop create the strong fabric of our firm.
As time passes may our tears wash away our pain and may Patricia’s memory bring laughter and joy, honoring the joyful person she is - and make our tears a distant emotion. To Patricia’s family and friends and to each member of our firm family, may God bless you and walk with you in the days ahead in the place we call grief and the journey we call life. Jane
Memo from Mike Beaver to the Rice Team
We are a strong team and we grieve so deeply because our team is a family and as Mike so perfectly stated in his note below to Team 3, the relationships we develop create the strong fabric of our firm.
As time passes may our tears wash away our pain and may Patricia’s memory bring laughter and joy, honoring the joyful person she is - and make our tears a distant emotion. To Patricia’s family and friends and to each member of our firm family, may God bless you and walk with you in the days ahead in the place we call grief and the journey we call life. Jane
Memo from Mike Beaver to the Rice Team
There are no right words to share or actions to take today as each of us absorbs the tragic event of Patricia’s passing. Without a doubt, today, and the coming days, will be the most somber days ever in the history of our Firm. Because we all handle times of sorrow differently, it is important to work through this terrible time at your own pace. Even though the deadlines and needs of our projects do not stop, please take the time you need to get to a point where you are ready to move forward. We are in a Firm and profession where we personally invest a great deal in our work and in doing so develop much more than casual relationships with our coworkers.
Recently the Rice Team has spent more time together as a team than we have spent with our families, and to suddenly lose our team member, our friend, is beyond difficult. She was the heart and sole of the Rice Team trudging through learning Revit and her tireless answering of questions was a remarkable gift of her’s. She never seemed burdened by the plethora of "how do you" type questions we asked all day / every day and she was unflappable throughout the many late nights as Revit issues and production issues emerged. For me she has been a very calming influence on our entire team.
I wish I were there today as you all come into work to share the grief I feel from so far away. Because we all choose to vest in our work and our work relationships as deeply as we do, we have opportunities to earn a living at the same time we develop friendships with our coworkers. We have all been through difficult production periods these last couple of years and it included many late night laughs as a group, as we all shared our stories and our personalities with each other. In the midst of all that we got to know Patricia on an entirely different level as she shared with us stories of her family, childhood and other snapshots of her life.
Again there are no words that can capture how bad we feel at our core with the passing of Patricia and the loss it creates for her family and our Firm. She leaves a void that only a person with her special personality can fill. When we take the time to listen to another’s stories, to share our life’s moments with coworkers and to actually vest in the lives of our colleagues we create a unique place to work. The relationships we develop at work to me are much more the fabric of our Firm than the built projects we collaborate on; therefore, on this sorrowful day I take a great deal of solace in how bad it feels to start saying goodbye.
Please know that as you share today I am with the Team in thought and spirit. It will be an equally difficult time in Houston moving forward as the problems seem so trivial today compared to this time yesterday morning.
Later today I will be sending a note to the Rice consultant and Linbeck contractor team about our loss and Jane has already sent a note to Hopkins. Today we all must do what we do best and work together to get through a difficult time.
Michael C. Beaver
Thoughts from the extended Rice Team
Memorandums and Notes recieved from our extended Rice Team in Houston and London.
Colleauges at Hanbury Evans:
Please pass on to everyone at HEWV and Patricia's family our most sincere condolences. It has been my opinion in working with HEWV that it is more than a firm, but a circle of friends and family who happen to work together.
Again, our deepest sorrow for Patricia's passing.
Regards,
Lisa Osborne
CHPA Engineers
Houston, TX
Jane, Mike:We are all so sad for the passing away of Patricia. We had not yet had the pleasure of knowing her, but we can imagine how profoundly grief stricken you all must be.It is sad when anyone dies, but it seems so much harder when they have just begun to live their adult lives. How terribly sad for her parents, family, fiancée and for all of you.I know that I speak for all of us at Linbeck Construction.Peace and our prayers be with you all.Ed Beck
Hanbury Evans Team:
Let me offer our deepest sympathy for yours and everyone’s loss of Patricia. I did not really know her but I’m grateful I had a chance to meet her in person. My prayers and heart-felt wishes go out to her family, relatives and close friends. I came across this prayer that I would like to share with you in your time of sorrow.
Almighty Father, Eternal God, hear our prayers for Your daughter Patricia whom You have called from this life to Yourself. Grant her light, happiness, and peace. Let her pass in safety through the gates of death, and live forever with all Your saints in the light You promised to Abraham and to all his descendants in faith. Guard her from all harm and on that great day of resurrection and reward raise her up with all Your saints. Pardon her sins and give her eternal life in Your kingdom.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Charles Eggert, P.E. Associate Vice President Haynes Whaley Associates, Inc.
Jane,
I am at loss for words!! I am so, so sorry to hear this news. I met Patricia in London and was greatly impressed with her talents. Please accept my deepest sympathies for her family, friends, and coworkers.
All my best,
Eleni Barzouka
Rice University Project Manager
I am so sorry to hear about the tragic loss of your friend and colleague. Please let me express my heartfelt sympathies for all of you during this time of grief. I think I can speak for the entire Linbeck team to let you know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sheri Roberts
From our team at Hopkins:
I feel very sorry.
We worked together when she was over here in our office last year and got to know her as a very nice and helpful person.
That’s a tragedy!
Regards
Thomas Fritz
Hopkins Architects Ltd.
I’m truly sorry to hear that, what terrible news.
All the best,
Tom Jenkins Architect
Colleauges at Hanbury Evans:
Please pass on to everyone at HEWV and Patricia's family our most sincere condolences. It has been my opinion in working with HEWV that it is more than a firm, but a circle of friends and family who happen to work together.
Again, our deepest sorrow for Patricia's passing.
Regards,
Lisa Osborne
CHPA Engineers
Houston, TX
Jane, Mike:We are all so sad for the passing away of Patricia. We had not yet had the pleasure of knowing her, but we can imagine how profoundly grief stricken you all must be.It is sad when anyone dies, but it seems so much harder when they have just begun to live their adult lives. How terribly sad for her parents, family, fiancée and for all of you.I know that I speak for all of us at Linbeck Construction.Peace and our prayers be with you all.Ed Beck
Hanbury Evans Team:
Let me offer our deepest sympathy for yours and everyone’s loss of Patricia. I did not really know her but I’m grateful I had a chance to meet her in person. My prayers and heart-felt wishes go out to her family, relatives and close friends. I came across this prayer that I would like to share with you in your time of sorrow.
Almighty Father, Eternal God, hear our prayers for Your daughter Patricia whom You have called from this life to Yourself. Grant her light, happiness, and peace. Let her pass in safety through the gates of death, and live forever with all Your saints in the light You promised to Abraham and to all his descendants in faith. Guard her from all harm and on that great day of resurrection and reward raise her up with all Your saints. Pardon her sins and give her eternal life in Your kingdom.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Charles Eggert, P.E. Associate Vice President Haynes Whaley Associates, Inc.
Jane,
I am at loss for words!! I am so, so sorry to hear this news. I met Patricia in London and was greatly impressed with her talents. Please accept my deepest sympathies for her family, friends, and coworkers.
All my best,
Eleni Barzouka
Rice University Project Manager
I am so sorry to hear about the tragic loss of your friend and colleague. Please let me express my heartfelt sympathies for all of you during this time of grief. I think I can speak for the entire Linbeck team to let you know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sheri Roberts
From our team at Hopkins:
I feel very sorry.
We worked together when she was over here in our office last year and got to know her as a very nice and helpful person.
That’s a tragedy!
Regards
Thomas Fritz
Hopkins Architects Ltd.
I’m truly sorry to hear that, what terrible news.
All the best,
Tom Jenkins Architect
Revit Girl
Dear Patricia, I don't have any blueberries today. All of those half-pints we passed back and forth across our partition, full of antioxidants. They were supposed to protect you. And that imaginary cape we teased you about in your role as "Revit Girl." Didn't it have magical properties that could have warded off the dark intruder, death? You always picked us up. I fear we let you down. I miss your contagious laugh, your amazing spirit, your cheerful smile and beautiful face. What a gift you were. Travel safely into this next life, my friend. I know heaven has the doors wide open for "Revit Angel." Love, Deborah
Saturday, February 23, 2008
"Hard Hat Tour" at the Va Beach Convention Center - July 2006
That's our dearest Patricia on the far right
A Note From Micky
I received an email from Micky Botez, which I post with his permission - Kurt
I found out from Richard last night and Nick also called me today. It's like someone from my family departed.
It is a dreadful tragedy, a bad joke. I had trouble sleeping last night. God wanted Patricia early, to fulfill a good purpose for the eternity, in heaven... to keep everyone smiling.
Patricia is a great friend and I have never seen her unhappy. She cheered up everyone. That's all I can see in front of my eyes when I think of her name: Laughter, smiles, happiness. If she taught me something in this life, it is this "Stay Happy mate". We talked endlessly about our cars, we both drove a Kia Sportage V6.
Sarah and I are shocked. All Sarah and I can do now is say a prayer that her soul will travel to heaven safely!
I found out from Richard last night and Nick also called me today. It's like someone from my family departed.
It is a dreadful tragedy, a bad joke. I had trouble sleeping last night. God wanted Patricia early, to fulfill a good purpose for the eternity, in heaven... to keep everyone smiling.
Patricia is a great friend and I have never seen her unhappy. She cheered up everyone. That's all I can see in front of my eyes when I think of her name: Laughter, smiles, happiness. If she taught me something in this life, it is this "Stay Happy mate". We talked endlessly about our cars, we both drove a Kia Sportage V6.
Sarah and I are shocked. All Sarah and I can do now is say a prayer that her soul will travel to heaven safely!
Friday, February 22, 2008
Dearest Patricia...
This whole day has been surreal. Like somehow you'll appear on Monday as if this was a bad dream.
Your gentle, sweet presence was so special to me and many others in the office. Your laugh was contagious. Your smile so generous and warm. Your energy and enthusiasm made me want to join you in whatever you were doing - whether it was CANstruction or making a quick Starbucks run to get a scone (pronounced scone-nay). I'll never forget your funny "pawing" - jokingly trying to get Matteo's attention. And your funny English accents...
I'm so sad that I won't get to know you more. Your drive, talent and self-motivation made you successful at your profession. But you were also so humble and sweet - genuinely caring to everyone around you.
I was so blessed to be able to get to know you when I first started working at Hanbury Evans - being in the next-door cubicle. Thank you for sharing your tea times with us. For sharing your joys with us. I'm so sad I won't get to see you at your wedding. You knew I was scared to death at the thought of doing your wedding photography - but I was so looking forward to sharing that day with you - what an honour!
We'll miss you, Revit Girl. The third floor will never quite be the same without you.
Much love,
Lady Catherine
To Patricia
Dear Patricia, I remember the last thing we were talking about the other day was how much we hate doing laundry. You were describing how you were sitting on the table full of clothes and waiting for your laundry done when you were in NYC, with that cute smile on your face.
We had a lot this kind of small chats. And little by little, I know you better and better in these four months while we sitting next to each other. I was thinking of a present for your new home in NC. I was looking forward to your wedding to see the most beautiful bride in the world…
Just like what I wrote in the email to Matt, life is so strange, nobody knows its plan, but sometimes its plan is so cruel.
Sitting here, looking at my monitor, I just feel like I may hear your voice in any minute, joking in that strange but cute England accent with Matt, and I sitting here smile....
Suping
We had a lot this kind of small chats. And little by little, I know you better and better in these four months while we sitting next to each other. I was thinking of a present for your new home in NC. I was looking forward to your wedding to see the most beautiful bride in the world…
Just like what I wrote in the email to Matt, life is so strange, nobody knows its plan, but sometimes its plan is so cruel.
Sitting here, looking at my monitor, I just feel like I may hear your voice in any minute, joking in that strange but cute England accent with Matt, and I sitting here smile....
Suping
From Patricia's Parents
All - I received an email from Patricia's father, with photographs and memories. At his request, I reproduce it here. - Kurt
Thank you all for your expressions of sympathy. Patricia was our youngest daughter at 24 years. She was bright and accomplished: a graduate of the Pratt Institute and an architect with Hanbury, Evans, Wright, Vlattas in Norfolk, Virginia.
Patricia had been sick all week, and Wednesday evening went to the doctor with flu-like symptoms. She was given some medicine, and then went home. She passed away in her sleep sometime Wednesday evening or Thursday, apparently of natural causes.
Our “Sis” was always a joy. She was a hard worker, made people around her happy, and loved to accomplish things that others couldn’t. We still have our daughter Laura, 26. She is a financial aid officer for ITT in Boise, Idaho.
Below is a small memorial to Patricia. I hope you will all have a chance to have a small share of the joy she brought to us.
Thank you again for your expressions of sympathy. We are proud to know all of you.
Joe and Pat Parker
Patricia (left) and Laura (right) with me at Christmas.
Patricia (center) at her graduation from Pratt. This picture was carried in the school’s journal.
Patricia jumps into a snow drift at Pratt. This picture captures her love of life.
Patricia and fellow architects at a design competition. She loved her work and her fellow architects.
Patricia and her friend Lauren in a canoe on the Niger River near Niamey, Niger.
Patricia and her friends from Pratt, Yessica and Lauren, in Niger watching giraffes.
Patricia at age 3 (left) and Laura age 5 (right) sitting in the White House Rose Garden while we visited with the President Reagan’s staff. They had an opportunity to play with the President’s Chief of Staff while there (he was also making sure they did not overturn any of the Frederick Remington statues that were throughout the West Wing at that time).
Patricia at age 3 in Monterey, California. She is sitting on my lap.
Her high school graduation picture from St. Marys-Ryken High School.
Patricia and our dog Samson getting ready to campaign for our good friend Jim Buck, who was running for re-election of his seat in the Washington State Legislature.
Patricia with Samson when we just got him as a puppy 4 years ago.
The family at the beach in Grand Bassam, Ivory Coast; in Africa. Patricia is the beauty at far left.
At Christmas 2006.
A Norman Rockwell picture, but Patricia was a great cook.
Patricia Ruth Parker
17 June 1983 ~ 21 February 2008
Thank you all for your expressions of sympathy. Patricia was our youngest daughter at 24 years. She was bright and accomplished: a graduate of the Pratt Institute and an architect with Hanbury, Evans, Wright, Vlattas in Norfolk, Virginia.
Patricia had been sick all week, and Wednesday evening went to the doctor with flu-like symptoms. She was given some medicine, and then went home. She passed away in her sleep sometime Wednesday evening or Thursday, apparently of natural causes.
Our “Sis” was always a joy. She was a hard worker, made people around her happy, and loved to accomplish things that others couldn’t. We still have our daughter Laura, 26. She is a financial aid officer for ITT in Boise, Idaho.
Below is a small memorial to Patricia. I hope you will all have a chance to have a small share of the joy she brought to us.
Thank you again for your expressions of sympathy. We are proud to know all of you.
Joe and Pat Parker
Patricia (left) and Laura (right) with me at Christmas.
Patricia (center) at her graduation from Pratt. This picture was carried in the school’s journal.
Patricia jumps into a snow drift at Pratt. This picture captures her love of life.
Patricia and fellow architects at a design competition. She loved her work and her fellow architects.
Patricia and her friend Lauren in a canoe on the Niger River near Niamey, Niger.
Patricia and her friends from Pratt, Yessica and Lauren, in Niger watching giraffes.
Patricia at age 3 (left) and Laura age 5 (right) sitting in the White House Rose Garden while we visited with the President Reagan’s staff. They had an opportunity to play with the President’s Chief of Staff while there (he was also making sure they did not overturn any of the Frederick Remington statues that were throughout the West Wing at that time).
Patricia at age 3 in Monterey, California. She is sitting on my lap.
Her high school graduation picture from St. Marys-Ryken High School.
Patricia and our dog Samson getting ready to campaign for our good friend Jim Buck, who was running for re-election of his seat in the Washington State Legislature.
Patricia with Samson when we just got him as a puppy 4 years ago.
The family at the beach in Grand Bassam, Ivory Coast; in Africa. Patricia is the beauty at far left.
At Christmas 2006.
A Norman Rockwell picture, but Patricia was a great cook.
17 June 1983 ~ 21 February 2008
I weep thy absence...
"With what a deep devotedness of woe
I wept thy absence - o'er and o'er again
Thinking of thee, still thee, till thought grew pain
And memory, like a drop that, night and day,
Falls cold and ceaseless, wore away my heart!"
-Thomas Moore
I wept thy absence - o'er and o'er again
Thinking of thee, still thee, till thought grew pain
And memory, like a drop that, night and day,
Falls cold and ceaseless, wore away my heart!"
-Thomas Moore
...for a brief moment we were blessed with your kindness,
generosity, immense spirit and talent.
thank you for all that you have given us.
your memory will remain in the hearts of all those
you have so deeply touched...
generosity, immense spirit and talent.
thank you for all that you have given us.
your memory will remain in the hearts of all those
you have so deeply touched...
I miss you so much Patty
I miss you so much Patty! To me, you are still sitting right across from me, smiling back and joking around as usual. It's been raining all day today...so appropriate for these sentimental moods. Even the Almighty is saddened by our loss. He feels our pain, our grief, our despair today at Hanbury - but He knows you best - for He knew you before you were knitted in your mother's womb.
I want to go back Patricia - just a few days in time - when I had your ring on my pinky finger, with Reggie's glasses on, pretending to be your wedding planner. Oh how you laughed. I can still hear you Patty. Your sweet voice. No one can match your kind, sincere heart - picking me up every morning for two weeks straight on your way in to work when I tore my acl - you knew I couldn't walk but you were there for support and friendship.
Flowers are on your desk today, but I'm sure you can smell them. They are so beautiful! Lilies - your favorite! Words can't express how much I miss you.
Dear Patricia,
Thinking of you today - I am struck by how many positive memories I have of you. Your giving nature inclined you to lead us in CANstruction - it was your skills with Revit that gave life to our "wave" idea. I hear your voice in my mind, imagine conversations we have had, think of the promise of your life, feel grateful to have known you and to experience your many gifts and talents. Your wit and humor. Your enthusiam and positive attitude. Your logic. Your confidence and humility. Mostly I am thankful to have had the opportunity to love and appreciate your inner beauty. I will miss all these things and more - mainly I will miss seeing you and your beautiful smile.
Patricia
I have been trying to come up with one word that would summarize the kind of person I always thought you were, but that is an impossible task. How do you find the right word for someone as beautiful, kind, loving, energetic, full-of-life, knowledgeable…as you? My strength only comes in knowing that you are in a much better place now; a place as beautiful as you. You will be missed greatly!
Much love to you and your family,
Cathy
Much love to you and your family,
Cathy
"To GOD we belong and to GOD we return"
I am sad that you left, but it is true, It is in-fact the only truth that all of us know very well, We will leave this life one day and we do not know when, The question here is how do we prepare for that day?
You loved and smiled at everyone you met, you had a pure heart, that is why it reflected on your smiles.
The couple times you came down to the Wytheville office and the day I met you in Wintergeen when you parked your car on the steep driveway asking for help still fresh in my memory and will remain.
To GOD we belong and to GOD we return.
without you
The world feels so different
Sublime, surreal, subdued.
Grief strikes the bold
Cripples the relentless
Razes the many and the few
With what do we defend?
With what do we ward off
This invisible fiend, a thief
Who should not have come
This soon.
The world feels so different
Melancholy, grey and hue-less.
Silence mutes our tears
Rage shatters our silence
Memory emblazons our grief.
With what do we defend?
What company can we muster
To bring back joy; stolen
Who should not have gone
This soon.
- JF 2008 -
the world just feels different. Words do not mute my tears only make them fall harder. Your kindness gave me courage when I needed it most. If I never told you in life - may you know now - I am so thankful. I am so blessed. I am forever blessed.
Sublime, surreal, subdued.
Grief strikes the bold
Cripples the relentless
Razes the many and the few
With what do we defend?
With what do we ward off
This invisible fiend, a thief
Who should not have come
This soon.
The world feels so different
Melancholy, grey and hue-less.
Silence mutes our tears
Rage shatters our silence
Memory emblazons our grief.
With what do we defend?
What company can we muster
To bring back joy; stolen
Who should not have gone
This soon.
- JF 2008 -
the world just feels different. Words do not mute my tears only make them fall harder. Your kindness gave me courage when I needed it most. If I never told you in life - may you know now - I am so thankful. I am so blessed. I am forever blessed.
Patricia
Hey girlfriend that's not fair. Who's going to bring me "burned" chocolate chip cookies now? Or $50 in pennies for CANstruction? And who's going to be our buddy and share our Wintergreen condo with Patrice & me? Wow, and who's going to come in bursting into my bathroom at Wintergreen and help me with my dress? I will miss your sweet smile, your sincere and disinterested friendship, the girl-to-girl talk, the "boys" talk, the marriage talk, the children talk and all the crazy stuff we talked about. :) We worked together, but above all we were friends with a common shared interest...to love live in general and to be loved in return. And that my friend is what you were...loved by us all. There are no words in the world to describe our feelings right now, but one thing is for sure...you will always be in our hearts. And if somebody gives me a burned chocolate chip cookie in the future, I’ll just smile and know that somehow you have sent it my way. :)
“The angels are having a party in heaven today, their day got a lot brighter with your sweet smile” ~Jellisse
“The angels are having a party in heaven today, their day got a lot brighter with your sweet smile” ~Jellisse
Grief
This is something I read a while ago and wrote in my journal. It seemed to help me so maybe it will be meaningful to others. Sorry, I don't remember who wrote it.
"Grief is like the wake behind a boat. It starts out as a huge wave that follows close behind you and is big enough to swamp and drown you if you suddenly stop moving forward. But if you do keep moving, the big wake will eventually dissipate. And after a long enough time the waters of your life get calm again, and that is when the memories of those who have left begin to shine as bright and as enduring as the stars above. "
"Grief is like the wake behind a boat. It starts out as a huge wave that follows close behind you and is big enough to swamp and drown you if you suddenly stop moving forward. But if you do keep moving, the big wake will eventually dissipate. And after a long enough time the waters of your life get calm again, and that is when the memories of those who have left begin to shine as bright and as enduring as the stars above. "
patriciaparker@hewv.4ever
smiling. soft. bright. beautiful. warm light pouring out. brilliance. industrious. curious. confident and collected. devoted. devoted. devoted. sweet giggling growing into rich, bulky laughter. voraciously pioneering our future.
This is my experience of Patricia. 100% delightful.
When Patricia graduated, she looked around and selected us. Oh, how lucky we have been to feel the warmth of that gift. She is a permanent treasure in our firm.
This is my experience of Patricia. 100% delightful.
When Patricia graduated, she looked around and selected us. Oh, how lucky we have been to feel the warmth of that gift. She is a permanent treasure in our firm.
for Patricia
Can't be
ordinary day
shattered
can't be!
dead - you?
impossible
healthy
young
planning
beloved
dead?
you
can't be.
Now what?
No reason
No sense
death out
of season
and we
struggle
with how
to mourn.
flowers
words
memorial
can't restore you
alive, at your desk
can help us honor
your life, create
legacy from
disruption.
- Victoria Sullivan Hendricks (my aunt, a writer and therapist, who shares in our sadness from afar by writing these poems for Patricia, beautifully expressing our disbelief and mourning.)
We love you, Trish.
ordinary day
shattered
can't be!
dead - you?
impossible
healthy
young
planning
beloved
dead?
you
can't be.
Now what?
No reason
No sense
death out
of season
and we
struggle
with how
to mourn.
flowers
words
memorial
can't restore you
alive, at your desk
can help us honor
your life, create
legacy from
disruption.
- Victoria Sullivan Hendricks (my aunt, a writer and therapist, who shares in our sadness from afar by writing these poems for Patricia, beautifully expressing our disbelief and mourning.)
We love you, Trish.
Goodbye Patricia
Patricia Parker started at Hanbury Evans in June of 2006. When she started here, she sat across from me, and my first impression of her was that she was a beautiful person -- she was not only a beautiful girl (rather exotic-looking), but she had a beautiful personality too. She had such a sweet disposition, always. Almost daily she visited the Marketing area to share a cup of tea with us. Her teacup was this tiny little white thing, and I used to joke with her about it, that it barely held a couple of mouthfuls of tea, but she would say that it was just enough for her. We would often trade stories about our dogs, or talk about her wedding plans. Whatever we talked about, she was always positive. I never heard her say an unkind word about anyone or anything -- that, in itself, is remarkable, but she was just that kind of person.
We worked on the Canstruction project together, and she was integral to the structural design. She mapped out the entire structure, and during the build, she oversaw every single layer of cans, making sure that it was perfect. I really don't think the team could have done it without her.
The other thing about her that keeps popping in my mind is her laugh – she had a very distinctive laugh, and every time I heard it, it made me smile. I will miss hearing that laugh.
I know she enjoyed working here, and all of us who were lucky enough to know her are going to miss her terribly. There is a big hole here on the third floor now, and I don't think we'll ever be able to fill it back up. A very wonderful, unique, special person is gone, and there will never be another like her.
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