Patricia Furman, age 86, died Friday, May 15, 2009 at her home in Okoboji, Iowa.
By her account, her childhood in Cedar Rapids, Iowa was idyllic. She enjoyed learning and was valedictorian of her high school class. She adored her grandfather, who lived with the family.
At Iowa State University, she majored in home economics, pledged Delta Zeta and met John.
After their marriage in 1946, they lived in Arlington, Neb. and Wilmington, N.C., before settling in Austin for 32 years. While in Austin, they formed abiding friendships and attended and/or hosted many celebrations all of which they enjoyed.
Pat endured golf, liked tennis and was passionate about books and bridge. She was an active volunteer in the First Congregational Church and in her community.
When John retired from Hormel, they moved to the family home on Okoboji, where more very special relationships were formed.
She was deeply loved. We will miss her wit, intelligence, generosity, warmth, meals and even her “Iowa Stubborn.”
Pat is survived by her two daughters: Ann Esse, Sioux Falls, S.D.; Betsy (Beth Janke), St. Paul; four grandchildren to whom she was “Grammar:” Joe and Allie Esse, and Eva and Theo Janke-Furman; nieces: Kathy Zamastil, Jean Navratil and Janet Maloney; and a nephew: Steve Zamastil.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John, in May 2008; her parents: Ann (Roddy) and Robert Gilchrist; sister: Mary Louise Zamastil; and son-in-law, Doug Esse.
At her request, no service was held. Memorials are preferred to the donor’s choice.