Pat Grundke
Pat Grundke
May 23, 1939 – 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, Illinois.
Arrangements entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home at 708-352-6500.
Pat taught me to sew when I was a 6th grader at Highlands School. Art was my science teacher. I’ll never forget either of them since they both had such a positive impact on my life (I still sew, and while science didn’t become my career, it has been a lifelong fascination). Thanks to both of them.
Very sorry for your loss
She was a wonderful librarian and a gentle soul who I had a pleasure knowing at Lagrange hospital
My deepest sympathies to family and friends
She was a person I was blessed to ever know
Rest In Peace pat thank you for all the help you provided me at the hospital. You surely were a treasure
When I think of who my favorite teacher was at Highlands, I think of Mrs. Grundke. I remember her being there to support me during times where a sixth grader can use someone in their corner. Mr. Grunke was up there too, but was always a little more serious. I enjoyed seeing Mr. Grunke at the eighth grade awards ceremony for many years which was great. Highlands has had an award in my mothers name, Julie for the past 50+ years. (Thank you)
Prayers to the Grundke family for the loss of their wife, mother, and grandmother. Memories of her, and her kindness will be with us forever!
When I think of favorite teachers at Highlands I always think of Mrs. Grundke. She was always in my corner in sixth grade when times were challenging. Mr. Grundke was great too but tougher on us! 🙂 I was lucky to see her working at LaGrange Hospital working a few times and visiting.
Sad, we will be out of town for the celebration of life.
Have been attending the Highlands Awards Ceremony for past 40 years and enjoyed seeing Mr. Grundke each time when he was still principal. Highlands has had an award in my mother’s name since 1969. Great school, great teachers!
Prayers to the entire Grundke family and am sure that you will have many great stories of Pat’s life to share.
John and Cathy , So sorry to hear of Pat’s passing. She was always so friendly . I know you will miss her. May she rest in peace. Marilyn and Guy Vorsanger