Patricia Strahota

How does one characterize a life spanning 92+ years, with a marriage and 6 children, a blessing of 12 grand- and 16 great-grandchildren, a menagerie of animal adoptions, homes and travels across the country, careers explored, and a self-sacrificing attitude, all coupled with occasional heartache and illness mended by a boatload of fun and laughter? You got it – WELL DONE!

With a profound sense of loss, but knowing there is a better path beyond, we announce the passing of our beloved Mom, who peacefully departed this world January 4, 2024. A lovely and kind lady, Patty was born in Watertown, Wisconsin (forever considered “home”), on June 8, 1931, to Joseph and Marcella Simon with one sibling Wayne “Joe” Simon. After graduating from Watertown High School, Pat married Ralph Strahota in 1951, starting their family and trek across seven states, landing for many years in Murrysville, PA; Bedford, MI; and ultimately Sylvania, Ohio. Throughout her years as a homemaker, she also worked in office administration, with many years as a consummate switchboard operator for Lambertville Answering Service, taking excellent care of small business owners and their clients. After “retiring” Mom also provided supreme care as a nanny to neighboring families for many years.

Family was the cornerstone of Mom’s life. As dependable as the rising sun, Mom nurtured and guided us all, offered solutions to our problems, opened her home and heart freely, and gave her time and attention selflessly. While an avid Steelers and University of Michigan fan, nothing gave her greater pleasure than children, and she easily entered their worlds of play, making her an ideal Nana. From playing make-believe, Candyland, hide & seek, and soccer to watching video games and creating secret handshakes, she transcended to meet kids where they were. She was the best.

Mom’s legacy lives on in the memories we hold dear – in the shared laughter with old and new friends alike, the heartfelt conversations, and the countless times she stood steadfast for her children with strength and love. Her spirit endures in the lives she touched, the lessons she imparted, and the enduring love she leaves behind.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, her brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Pat Simon, husband Ralph, daughters Kathleen Visnick and Janet Davis, daughter-in-law Colleen Strahota, and grandson Craig Visnick. She is survived by children Michael (Charlene) and Edward (Linda) Strahota, Laurie (Todd) Jonland, and Beth (Dean) Skillman. Along with her many grand- and great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, we will all miss her dearly.

As we lay Mom to rest, we pray she has found her way back to Watertown, sitting on the porch with her Grandpa Joe enjoying her favorite chocolate malt from Mullen’s Dairy – that is the bliss she deserves. Rest in peace, dear Mom, Patsy, Chatty Patty, Grandma, Gram, Nana – your laughter echoes in our hearts and your love will guide us always.

The family wishes to thank Elizabeth Scott Community and Hospice of Northwest Ohio for their care.

The family will receive friends at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 West Sylvania Ave., Toledo, OH, on Friday, January 19, 2024, from 2 – 4 p.m. with a memorial service immediately following. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Alzheimer’s Association, or a charity of your choice.