Patricia M Sanden

Patricia "Patty" (Sherman) Sanden, 66, of Rockville, beloved mother, grandmother and friend, daughter of the late Merrill and Helen (Toma) Sherman passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at her home on Sunday, January 22, 2017. She was born on September 28, 1950 in Hartford and resided in Manchester for most of her life until relocating to Rockville in 2005. A devoted working mom, Patty had been employed for over 25 years with E.C.H.N. and was a longtime member of St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Manchester, a place which held special meaning to her and which she held dear to her heart. Aside from her love of singing in the church choir, she was an avid fan of folk music and enjoyed teaching herself how to play instruments of the like. She was never far from her mountain dulcimer, autoharp, guitar and her most prized possession, her piano and always welcomed a listening ear to share her passion. As a teenager, she was a proud member of Rainbow and one of her fondest memories was having the opportunity to be an organist for the organization. In her adult life, she found solace and peace in spending as much time as she could under the warm summer sun and immersed in a cool body of water. One of her most treasured and cherished memories were the times she spent at the family cottage in Clinton, Connecticut. The only thing that rivaled a good crossword puzzle or a Steven King book at the beach was her intense love for her friends and family. The birth of her grandson, Randy was undoubtedly one of the best days of her life and she adored him with all that she was. Patty's immense adoration for the Native American culture introduced her to a legion of friends who became a special kind of family to her. Their kindness and convivial sincerity gave the gift of kinship and quickly became woven into the fabric of her life. Patty never met a stranger. Her kindness was matched only by her desire to ensure no soul would feel un-welcomed, un-loved or unwanted in her presence. She never turned a blind eye to anyone in need and gave of herself endlessly; not because she had a lot to give but because she knew what it was like to be without. The world was a kinder, softer place in her company. Patty is survived by her former husband Roy Sanden of Manchester and their children Linnea Madore and her husband Rick of Manchester and their son Randy, Merrill Sanden and his fianc Maurine Langley of Savannah, GA, and Jennifer Jones of Manchester. Patty is also survived by her two brothers and sisters-in-law; James and Celeste Sherman of Maine and Robert and Brenda Sherman of Clinton, her many nieces and nephews, and close family friends Bill Such and Bruce Sheftel. Family and friends are welcome to attended a time of visitation at Watkins Funeral Home, 142 East Center St. Manchester on Thursday, January 26, 2017 from 4-7 pm. Funeral services will be celebrated on Friday, January 27, 2017 at 10:30 am at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 41 Park St. Manchester. Burial will be private. Memorial contributions may be made on behalf of her grandson to Boy Scouts of America. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmes-watkinsfuneralhomes.com

Visitation DetailsThursday, January 26th, 2017 4:00pm - 7:00pm, Watkins Funeral Home
Service DetailsFriday, January 27th, 2017 10:30am, St. Mary's Episcopal Church