Playing the role of young Trisha, Patti starred on The Donna Reed Show from 1963-1966. After several commercials and industrial films, she semi retired to marry and have a family. She has continued her professional training with emphasis as a country singer/songwriter. Patti founded InterNovel, the first company on the Internet to collaborate with both novice and professional authors in the writing of novels. She has also devoted time to coaching junior high cheer leading, leading several teams into Southern California Final Competitions. She is also an instructor of computer studies. Patti and Paul Petersen played siblings on The Donna Reed Show.