Patricia (Pat) Bethke

Patricia (Pat) Bethke passed into the arms of her creator on January 27, 2025. Pat was born in Houston, Texas, on March 1, 1940. She received her B.S. in elementary education with a minor in music from the University of Houston. As a teacher, she taught art and music classes, but fifth grade was her real love. She had special memories of her students in the Round Rock and Fayetteville school districts.

Pat is survived by her husband of over 65 years, Ray Bethke of Sun City. Also, sons Craig Bethke (Fay) of Whangarei, New Zealand, and Jeffrey Bethke of Troutdale, Oregon, as well as one granddaughter, Abigail Bethke, a student at Western Oregon University. She also leaves behind two sisters, Rosalyn Bishop of Waco, Texas, and Donna Gindrup of Leander, Texas, along with many nieces, nephews, professional colleagues and friends.

Many were blessed by her beautiful alto voice. She used her gift for God’s glory at church as well as other concerts. She helped organize the Sun City Singers and was often a soloist for many of their concerts. She also appeared in several plays performed by the Sun City Theater group.

Through the years, Pat and Ray traveled extensively in the United States and Europe. She loved planning family cruises but especially the group outings for Christ Lutheran to Germany and Alaska. Additional time was spent in the church office, singing and Meals on Wheels.

Her last two years were spent in the Luminations area of Grand Living in Georgetown. Here she received loving and compassionate care by dedicated staff members each and every day.

Burial will take place in the city cemetery of Giddings, Texas.