Thinking of Patty

October 20th is my mom’s birthday, and like most days, I will think about her a lot. Patty was a wonderfully loving mom, sister, friend and grandma. Juliette still brings her name up often and it makes me happy. It’s still hard to talk about Patty (without turning into a puddle) and even harder to believe she is no longer a phone call (or trip to the Fishing Club) away, but I’m always happy to hear people talk about my mom and recount all the fun stories. There were many.

Everyone who knew Patty remembers her abundance of warmth, caring, laughter, sense of humor and the ease in which she brought family and friends together and made sure everyone always had a rollicking good time. She and Don were amazing parents: selfless, supportive and loving. DJ and I were very lucky to have them. So was 10th Avenue.

Patty was my pal. She was the best. Her spirit and energy will be there for us always. Love ya, Mom.

The Burkes

Patty & DJ

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jeff_patty

patty_sisters

ladies

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4 Comments »

  1. Heather Said,

    October 19, 2009 @ 11:04 pm

    What a beautiful tribute to Patty! I miss her too and will always remember the warmth and generosity your parents showed their son’s girlfriend’s little sister back in the day! She was a VERY special woman and raised two amazing boys! We love you Jeff!

  2. Mary Dunn Said,

    October 20, 2009 @ 7:16 am

    Beautifully said, Jeff! I love the wonderful old pictures too. I know she was with me the whole time I was in Italy, and that’s what made the trip so special. I’m glad that Juliette still speaks of her grandma, and how she would adore Oona’s smiles and antics! Patty remains in the hearts and souls of so many, and that will never change, but I miss her presence terribly. Thanks for writing about her and keeping her memory alive and well!

  3. sally ervin walser Said,

    October 20, 2009 @ 8:16 am

    I have known Patty since both of us were in 3rd grade at St. Rose. She was and is truly my best friend for life (BFF as the “kids” say.} She had a great heart. Even though we did not live near each other for the past 40 years, I always knew that if I knocked on her door it would be open to me. Space does not allow me to mention all of the times we had together – class trips to DC and NYC, hs cheerleading, the grand tour of Europe in our 20s, the birth of her children, the adoption of mine. Her parents were “mine,” as are her brothers and sister, children, grandchildren, neices and nephew. Most of all her wonderful husband Don. Dave and I spent so many loving and laugh filled hours at their home. We experienced losses together and welcomed new life into our worlds together.
    when our son Daniel passed away, Patty was one of the first to call and lend me her shoulder, as she always did. She will always be in my heart and I will always treasure her friendship. The pictures are great!

  4. Linda Riley Said,

    October 20, 2009 @ 9:46 am

    Patty was truly a special person. Kevin and I have so many great memories of fun times at the yellow house. Your parents were always so warm and welcoming to us. Not a summer goes by that we don’t wish we could be hanging on the porch on 10th Ave. The Lyons, Potatoes Au Gratin and the beach – a perfect mix! Hope to see you guys when we come to PA in for Xmas. This time, we are making it happen!

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