03/30/2026
Patricia "Patty" Ann Diede
Patricia "Patty" Ann Diede, born December 27, 1934, passed away on March 28, 2026, in Salem, Oregon, at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Patty was born in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to Merrill and Gertrude Ries, and spent her childhood there, forming the strong roots and values that would guide her throughout her life.
Patty married Roy Diede on April 1,1952 in Aberdeen and together they had three children, Tim, Cynthia, and Greg. After leaving Aberdeen, they eventually moved to Salem, Oregon where they spent the remainder of their lives.
For many years, Patty worked at Salem Hospital as an Admitting Clerk in the Emergency Room, where she made a positive impact on patients and staff alike. Patty enjoyed and was proud to have worked there.
Patty Diede lived life to the fullest. She had a knack for bringing people together and making every gathering feel special. Family and friends always knew that a visit to Patty's home meant good food, laughter, and stories that would make you smile for days. Relatives traveled from South Dakota and Texas just to be part of her famous get-togethers, and she loved every minute of it. Although she enjoyed cooking and hosting, food itself was never important to her-her joy came from sharing it with others.
Patty was a fun-loving and caring mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She delighted in taking her grandchildren to the video store to pick out movies, sharing stories from both past and present, and keeping family history alive with her incredible memory. In her younger years, she stayed active with aerobics classes, sometimes bringing her granddaughter along. She enjoyed the thrill of the casino with her playful spirit. She had a deep love of animals, especially dogs, and shared her home and heart with many beloved pets throughout her life. Before her diagnosis with Macular Degeneration, she enjoyed reading books and watching TV shows, with favorites including COPS and Judge Judy. Patty also loved crafting, making latch hook rugs, and practicing decoupage, expressing her creativity in every project.
Patty was known for her vibrant personality and bold style-she always wore colorful clothing, sequined hats, and flashy jewelry, and she loved dancing whenever she had the chance. She also spent a lot of time with her friends at her favorite bar in Salem, enjoying good company, laughter, and camaraderie.
Patty was very close to her three siblings and spent a lot of quality time with them. She and her sister, Kathy, especially shared a love of travel, taking trips together to Disneyland and on a cruise, creating cherished memories along the way.
After Roy's passing in 2015, Patty found love again and spent many wonderful years with her companion, Bruce Fochtman, who preceded her in death last year.
In the last several years, Patty was blessed with the daily companionship and friendship of her dear friend, Kerri Cox, whose visits brought comfort, laughter, and love.
She is survived by her children, Tim Diede (Susie) and Greg Diede; her son-in-law, Bob Anderson; her grandchildren, Lance Diede (Rachel), Jenny Smith (Steve), Josh Cruise, and Dusty Diede; and her great-grandchildren, Valerie Diede, Chloe Diede, Ben Diede, Yoni Smith, Re*****on Diede, Blake Diede, and Gunner Diede; as well as many nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and friends who loved her deeply
Patty was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Diede; daughter, Cindy Anderson; brothers, Wes Ries and Bob Ries; sister, Kathy Miller; and nephew, Butch Halvorson.
Patty Diede's life was a celebration-her laughter, love, stories, and the joy she shared with her family, friends, and beloved pets will continue to light up the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
A private family ceremony will be held.
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