Patricia Ann Pucino Youngren
September 3, 1941 - January 25, 2021
Beloved and loving mother, dear sister and aunt, longtime friend and loyal colleague of so many, Patricia Ann Pucino Youngren died peacefully in her sleep on the early morning of Jan. 25, 2021. Despite health challenges in recent months, this was truly unexpected, and we are heartbroken by the sudden loss of our mother.
Patti was born to John L. Pucino and Donna Pinto Pucino on Sept. 3, 1941, in a little town “up the Hudson River” called Newburgh, N.Y. She lived there for her formative years, graduating from high school at Newburgh Free Academy (NFA) in 1959 and working after graduation at New York Military Academy (NYMA) in the early 1960s. It was while working at NYMA that she met Michael A. Youngren, who was serving in the U.S. Air Force and stationed at what was then Stewart Air Force Base in Newburgh. The two would marry in December, 1963 and eventually moved across the country, first to Pocatello, Idaho (Mike’s hometown), and ultimately to Salt Lake City, Utah in the late ‘60s.
Though they would divorce in 1973, Patti and Mike had two children – a son, John, born in Newburgh, and a daughter, Michelle, born in Salt Lake. And while she always considered herself a “New Yorker” and was forever proud of those roots and that association, Patti settled into Salt Lake for the next 50-plus years and had many friends, associates, social connections and influences. She was funny, and funny things happened to her. And she was never afraid to tell stories about those things. Family, friends and co-workers were constantly entertained. She had a generous soul and a big heart.
In 1973, Patti took a new job – first as a receptionist, and later rising through a series of positions – at what was then called Zions First National Bank. She loved working at the head office, in downtown Salt Lake City, for the next 27 years. She made and maintained many special relationships with clients and co-workers from the era; she retired in 2000 as a Commercial Loan Officer and had a network of friends from her Zions family for years. She was always proud of her work and put in a hard day, every day. Her work ethic was unequaled, especially given raising two young kids as a single mother (us against the world).
After retirement, she unexpectedly encountered a series of serious health problems, challenges that would plague her off-and-on for the next two decades. But, she was a fighter and she overcame long odds to come back time and again, as recently as August, 2020. She also always maintained her spirit and sardonic sense of humor. Laughter was common with Patti, and she made family, friends and neighbors, doctors, nurses and so many medical staffers and guests feel comfortable, no matter the situation.
She is survived by her son, John Youngren, and her daughter, Michelle Watson (Craig), as well as her sister, Susan Roe (David) and a nephew, Greg Roe (Alicia). She’s preceded in death by her parents, John and Donna. She counts many other cousins, nieces, nephews and relations. She was mad until the end she didn’t get any grandchildren. And yes, she would have been a great “Nana.”
Patti loved life, and she loved being “in the know” and tuned-in to the news and pop culture. She was thrilled and grateful to get to see the Inauguration of President Joe Biden just a week or so ago. She loved a political debate, but she also loved a good TV drama, or the latest episode of “The Real Housewives” or “The View.” She lived for the annual sale at Nordstrom, those coupons from Macy’s and traipsing around Fashion Place Mall or Target on any given Saturday. In recent years, she liked brunch at The Oasis Café with her kids, or a burger at The Point After on Sundays. She was forever stylish (she would never leave the house without being “put together”), hip and present, until the very end. She didn’t like long obituaries, and mentioned that more than once. So, we’ll call this a wrap. As a trio for the past 40-plus years, we always fought through and held on together, and we are devastated today.
Patti will be laid to rest during a private family service at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Salt Lake City. A celebration of her life will be held at a date in the future when it is safe to gather.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Patti’s name.
In Loving Memory
Michelle and John, When I met your mom, I recognized both of you in her. She was funny and full of life. I am sure both of you will miss her forever. Your friend always, Rick
Rick MacDougall
Salt Lake City, UT
I. I noticed this obituary of your Mother, Mike Youngren is cousin of mine , I have been trying to find him I would like to talk to him my . My condolences on the passing of your Mother
Kurt Auernig
Bountiful, Ut
John and Michelle, I am so sorry to hear of your mom's sudden passing. I will always have special memories of her and your family. I wish you both peace and comfort during this extremely difficult time. With love, Natalie
Natalie Peterson
Salt Lake City, UT
I am a good friend of Helene Brownstead and talk to her all the time like she did with your Mom. I am so sorry for your loss. I graduated with your Mom and have many memories of her happy smiles and words. May the memories stay in you heart and bring a smile to your face. HUgs Pam
Pamela
New Windsor, Ne
Dear Patti. I wish I could have said a proper goodbye. I enjoyed seeing you every week these last few years and will miss your smile and our conversations. You really brightened my day!! Michelle and Jon, you have both been wonderful to your mom. May peace be with you and your family!!
Teri Gallegos
Salt Lake City, Ut
Dear Susan, John & Michelle, MY condolences on your loss. Growing up in Newburgh. NY, Patti was a dear childhood friend. We spent many happy & sad times together. She was a very special person who will be greatly missed.
Burma Scott
New York, NY
dear Michelle and John I'm so sorry for your loss.patty was my dear friend for many years. we both graduated in 1959 and we married and went our separate ways. recently patty and I connected again and I was so happy. we lived far apart but we talked every Sunday and it was great. I will miss her and our talks. rest in peace my friend love you Helene
helene brownstead
syracuse, ny
Dear Michelle, John and Susan, I was a high school friend of Patti’s, and we stayed in sporadic contact over the years. I was reminiscing with a friend today - recalling how very fun and kind Patti was. We recalled the fond memories we had while visiting at at her home in Newburgh with John and Donna (and young Susan). Prayers, peace and comfort to you all. Rhea Jacobson
Rhea (Sinisgalli) Jacobson
Fairfax, VA
Dear Michelle and John, I knew your Mother through my sister Sylvia Schultz who adored her. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Sylvia would always tell me of your endearing love for your Mother and how much she loved both of you. I’m sure Sylvia is once again laughing at your mothers quick wit and humor. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. All my love, Christie Schultz
Christie Schulz
Midvale, UT
Dear John - I was so sorry to read of your mom’s passing. I know how close you and your sister were to her and my heart aches for you. My thoughts are with you as you go through this difficult time. Warmly - Deborah Bayle
Deborah Bayle
Salt Lake City, UT
I’m so sad to see my friend and former colleague at Zions Bank has passed away. She was fun, funny and a delight to work with and always dressed to the “Nines”! I understand why she was such a good dresser now as I seemed to always bump into her at Nordstrom’s or ZCMI /Macy’s and seemed always in the company of her Daughter Michelle on a shopping adventure. You’ll be missed Patti!
Grant Mcallister
Salt lake city, Ut
It is with much sadness that I write this message to John & Michele. I am your second cousin also born in Newburgh. I have the fondest memories of your Mother Patti Ann and Susan growing up in the same town. Though we have all grown apart through the years I was very sorry to hear of her passing. My heart goes out to you all. What a beautiful obituary for an equally beautiful woman. Maybe some day we will all meet. With Sympathy, cousin Tina
Tina Garzione Whitcanack
East Moline, IL
Michelle, this is your old friend Julie. We grew up together and you were and are the greatest and closest friend I ever had. I miss you so very much. I’ve been trying to find you to reconnect. I am so so sorry about your mom. I adored her. She was so chic and gorgeous and brilliant and kind and funny and loving. Just one of the greatest moms in the world. Remember you and I always taking the bus downtown to go see her at the bank? I loved visiting with her, she was one of my heroes. What a strong, fearless, beautiful woman. You are just like her. I wish I could ease your pain, I know you and John are devastated. I’d do anything to help. Love you so much and always will. You’re my other half. Julie
Julie Anderson
Salt Lake City, UT
Dear John and Michelle, I'm shedding a tear for you and the loss of your mom and my dear friend. Our families spent many hours together when we all were younger, times at KUTV and playing games at your house or ours. Such good memories. I have wonderful pictures if you'd like to see them. Love to you both Judy & Rick
Judy Tripp Spratling
Holladay, UT
Michelle, I am so sorry about the loss of your loving Mom.I got the pleasure of knowing her on her many shopping trips to Dillards. What a Beauty Lady inside and out. Please know that I am thinking of you and take care. ' Sincerely, Gloria Vaccaro
Gloria A. Vaccaro
Murray, UT
Dear John and Michelle, I am so sorry to hear about Patty. I have very fond memories of her. I always remember her laughing and telling stories. Chic is the exact word I would use to describe her. She always looked flawless when I ran into her out shopping. My mom loved talking to her and discussing the world, she was a great friend to Judy all these years. I am so sorry for your loss.
Nicole Freeman
Draper, Ut
I am so sorry to hear about Patty. I have very fond memories of her. We first met when I worked for a business called Utah Technologies Finance Corporation starting in 1994 that was located on the corner of 100 S and 200 E in downtown SLC. We did participation loans with her bank. I left the business at the end of September of 1997 but remember seeing her from time to time usually in nice department stores. She was always dressed well in the company of her daughter when we crossed paths. I loved seeing her because she always brought a smile to my face.
Bob Moyer
salt lake city, UT