Pat Grundke Obituary

Pat Grundke
Born: May 23, 1939
Died: January 17, 2023
Pat Grundke, 83, of La Grange Park, died peacefully January 17, 2023, with her devoted husband by her side. Pat was born to the late John and Florence Choitz in Ness City, Kansas. She is survived by her husband, Art Grundke; her loving children Eric (Kristen), Jennifer Peyton (Mark) and John (Cathleen); her adoring grandchildren James, Jackson, Alyssa, Tatum, Andrew, Jessica, Conor, Jack and Isabella. Pat met Art in high school where they became high school sweethearts at the age of 15. They graduated in 1957 and Pat went on to Stout College in Wisconsin where she served as a Dorm Adviser. Upon graduation, Pat was hired as a Home Economics teacher in Detroit. In 1962, Pat and Art were married and later moved to Western Springs where they lived for 55 years before moving to Plymouth Place in La Grange Park in 2019. In 1962, Pat was hired at La Grange Highlands Middle School as a 6th grade teacher. She worked there for five years and was able to make a positive impact on countless students who still remember her and have continued to reach out to her over the years. Pat retired from teaching as they started a family, and she took a part time job at La Grange Hospital where she started the medical library. Part-time turned into full time and Pat continued to work as the La Grange Hospital Medical Librarian for 35 years. During retirement, Pat and Art traveled extensively including 22 trips out of the country, attended sporting events, many concerts and spent time with family and friends. When Pat and Art moved to Plymouth Place, Pat volunteered many hours in the library and also participated in the choir. Pat had a way of always making people feel welcome. She instilled a love of reading, music, sports (not referees) and a strong work ethic in her children. Pat will be missed greatly by family and friends. A celebration of life will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, 200 N. Catherine Ave., La Grange on February 4th at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pillars Community Health or Beds Plus in La Grange, IL. Arrangements by Hallowell & James Funeral Home at 708-352-6500 or HJFunerals.com.