Patricia Anne Oaks (Bennett), age 83, of Grand Rapids, peacefully fell asleep on Friday, July 6, 2018, painlessly and ready for her place in eternity. She was born in Montcalm County, the daughter of Albert and Goldie Bennett.
A lifelong warrior, she put family first and treated her many friends as such, consistently and with fervor. Her quick wit, infectious humor, bright smile, wise eyes, brilliant mind, relentless honesty, sassy mouth, and demonstrative faith won the hearts of all she met. She proved that a full life is not defined by things, worldly success, or even recognition. Only her brand of courage can transform the most humble of beginnings into a journey that inspires us to keep growing and fighting for what is right, as awkward as it may look and as difficult as it may be. Only her brand of love – the kind God so graciously provides – can leave a family not abandoned or helpless, but strong and equipped for any storm. She was a gift that can’t be replaced and left us with memories that will never fade.
Pat loved spring flowers, especially lilacs; feeding peanuts to the squirrels; her kitty, Chloe; the Smokey Mountains; going out to lunch; and teddy bears. She was a simple soul who found beauty in simple things with a profound faith in God.
Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Oaks, who loved her more than himself; also by her sister, Barbara; and brothers, Ted and Red Bennett. She is survived by four children: Tami Courter, Julie Kerr-Keith, Randy and Melissa Kerr, and Jonathon Oaks; six grandchildren, Desirée Reed, Jeremy Keith, Rebecca and Dave Langoni, Rebekah and Brandon Olejnik, McKenzie Keith, and Michael Keith; four great-grandchildren, Zaiden Alan, Liana Jo, Sage Grace, and Emmalyne Lynne; life-long friend, Mayeillieen Bartosh; many nieces and nephews who loved her deeply; and friends from all walks of life whom she considered family in her heart.
Please join us to celebrate her life at 2:00 PM, with a visitation from 1-2:00 PM, on Saturday, July 14th at Roth-Gerst Funeral Home, Lowell, MI.
Pat’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful staff and many friends at The Lodge at Samaritas, who took excellent care of her when we could not. Your dedication and kindness will never be forgotten.
In honor of Patricia and Harold’s final resting place, donations to Alton Cemetery would be greatly appreciated (Alton Cemetery Association, C/O Ken Wittenbach, 2655 Lincoln Lake NE, Lowell, MI 49331). Please click on the following link to learn of their financial need: http://lowellbuyersguide.com/alton-cemetery-in-financial-distress-p1447-1.htm
5 Responses
To my Aunt Phat Pat to whom became more mother to me than an aunt.I will always cherish my memories of our visits and long telephone conversations and all the great advise you gave me over the years. You will be missed more than you will ever know. I’m not ready to say goodbye. I love you.
She was a special lady and will be missed. Love and hugs to her family.
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Prayer and condolences are with the family.
My sympathies to the extended Oaks family especially Randy and Melissa Kerr and Rebekah and Brandon Olejnik. I appreciated such a colorful obituary with photos to give me a glimpse of such a delightful and strong woman. Thank you for carrying on her legacy with your own carrying lives.
What a beautiful tribute to someone who was clearly an amazing woman. My sympathies to Pat’s family and friends for your loss.