Patricia Wickhem
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Patricia Ann Wickhem, an extraordinary woman who taught generations of students to love Latin and to see the world with curiosity.
Miss Wickhem, or “Magistra” as she was affectionately known by her students, was a fixture at Polytechnic School in Pasadena for four decades, and later taught at Pasadena City College for another decade. From her classroom, she taught a love of Latin that extended far beyond the school walls. Many former students recount her unique ability to make lessons come alive with engaging stories and a contagious enthusiasm.
Patty passed away on September 7, 2025, at the age of 85. She is predeceased by her father and mother, Frank and Mildred Wickhem, and her younger brother, Stephen. She is survived by her brother Patrick, sister-in-law Sue, and five beloved nephews and nieces, Jennifer, John, Lauren, Lisa, and Stephen; as well as her great-nieces Bryanna, Ella and Olivia, daughters of John and his wife, Lizette.
Patty was a longtime parishioner of St. Andrew Catholic Church, where she practiced her faith, which was a guiding force in her life. She had a strong devotion to the Blessed Mother, praying the rosary often.
She will be profoundly missed by her family and many friends, and remembered always for her unwavering kindness, big smile, and deep commitment to the power of learning.
Patty graduated from high school at Mayfield Senior School in Pasadena and college at Dominican University of California in San Rafael. She was a proud UCLA alumna, where she earned her Master’s degree, and a lifelong Bruins fan. She was a terrific tennis player and enjoyed the cherished friends in her tennis group at the Altadena Town & Country Club. She was also an avid traveler, visiting over 30 countries and exploring the wonders of the world.
The family would like to thank Dr. Stephen Henry for his lifelong compassionate care of Patty, and the staff of the Californian for their great care over the last 2 1/2 years.
A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, September 18, at St. Andrew Catholic Church.