Patricia Pickering Benton

Patricia Pickering Benton passed away in Peoria, Arizona on March 4, 2026, at the age of 79. Born in New Brunswick, New Jersey on January 31, 1947, she was known by her family and friends as a woman of great spirit, fierce determination, and strong passions. Patricia’s signature laugh and spunk will be fondly remembered along with her deep love of animals, nature, and people.

Patricia completed her schooling in Switzerland, where she went on to become the sole in-house Marketing Manager for McDonald’s in Europe, making McDonald’s Switzerland one of Europe’s most successful markets. She later returned to the United States and married her beloved husband, Robert Benton, in Mammoth Lakes, California on July 23, 1989.

Patricia and Robert eventually settled in Friday Harbor, Washington and spent over 25 years living on the Island. They could often be found walking the beaches and trails with their cherished King Charles Spaniels or driving through town in their trademark Bronco.  Patricia and Robert had a deep love for their community and joined the volunteer San Juan Island EMS in 2002, where they served for over 12 years and shared the honor of the Officer of the Year Award in 2010. During this time, Patricia also created a program to educate pet owners on proper care and administration of CPR for their pets.

Patirica was predeceased by her husband, Robert Benton and sister Pennie Pickering Friedlander (Robert Friedlander).

She is survived by her sister Pamela Pickering, niece Courtney Friedlander Doyle (Marty Doyle), nephew Cameron Friedlander (Jennifer Friedlander), and niece Caitlin Pickering Campbell (Keith Campbell.)  As well as Robert’s children, Lisa Benton (John Short) and Mike Benton (Abby Benton).

The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a future date, please look for a notice on Patricia’s Facebook page. In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to:

 San Juan Island EMT Association, P.O. Box 1243, Friday, Harbor, WA 98250 or

Animal Protection Society – Friday Harbor , PO Box 1355 Friday Harbor, WA 98250