Pacific University Remembers Longtime Staff Member Pam Kofstad

Faculty, Staff and Students,

We are deeply saddened to let you know that Pam Kofstad, longtime staff member at Pacific, passed away on Oct. 5 due to complications from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). At the time of her passing, Pam was surrounded by family and friends at her home in Vernonia.

Many of you knew Pam and her family well, including her children, Kelly (Kofstad) Kielian ’06 and Dustin Kofstad ’08.  

Pam joined the university community in 2001, and provided exemplary service in multiple capacities until her early retirement in July 2015 as a result of her condition. 

Pam worked in the University Relations (now Advancement) office prior to becoming the administrative assistant for the Social Sciences Division (now the School of Social Sciences), where she supported more than 30 faculty and staff. She will be remembered most for her kindness, joyful spirit and humanity. She always seemed to greet everyone with a smile upon their entry to the Social Sciences office.

No matter how busy, Pam was always willing to listen when someone was having a bad day, and she radiated goodness and a generosity of spirit. Pam will be missed but never forgotten. Following her diagnosis, Pam and her family were committed to raising awareness of ALS, as seen through this slideshow.

University Chaplain and Center for Peace and Spirituality Director Rev. Dr. Chuck Currie is maintaining close contact with the Kofstad family and he is available should any of you need emotional support. Chuck can be reached at 971-322-7920 or chuck.currie@pacificu.edu.

A public memorial service for Pam will take place at the Harvest Community Church in Beaverton (21235 NW Quatama Road) on Sunday, Oct. 16 at 3 p.m.

Please keep Pam's family in your thoughts during this difficult time. 

Best regards,

Lisa Carstens, PhD
Dean - College of Arts & Sciences

Jessica Ritter, PhD, MSSW
Director - School of Social Sciences