Marlene “Pat” Kotchevar, age 87, passed away peacefully the afternoon of Monday, March 26, 2018 at Touching Lives Group Home, Savage, MN. She was a resident of Prior Lake, MN.
A private family Mass of Christian Burial led by Fr Jim Van Dorn will be held at St. Michael Catholic Church, Prior Lake, MN. Pat will be laid to rest at Shakopee Catholic Cemetery.
On January 12, 1931 in St. Paul, MN, Marlene Joan was born to parents, Robert and Vera (Deller) Shimek. Best known as Pat, she was the second four children. Pat’s life was enriched, when she became the amazing mother to two precious daughters, Patty and Betsy. Pat’s life was once again blessed marrying Philip Kotchevar on November 1, 1968, welcoming Phil’s children, Kevin and Shelley into her life.
Pat enjoyed the simple things in life. She treasured the mini trips with her daughters and spending countless hours shopping, especially at Herberger’s. Pat also had a fond love for the outdoors. Through the years, she enjoyed skiing and snow shoeing. Pat loved all sorts of animals, especially feeding and watching the birds. For over 20 years, Pat and Phil enjoyed wintering in Florida, where many special relationship and memories were created.
The greatest passion in Pat’s life was family and being surrounded by children. She was a kind, caring and generous individual. Pat’s family was blessed with honest and unconditional love. Her amazing gentle approach and fun-loving spirit shined through when Pat was in the presence of children of any age. This was apparent when she became a grandma. Pat relished the relationship she had with each grandchild and great-grandchild.
Pat will be forever missed and forever loved by husband, Phil; children, Patty (Dan) O’Neil, Betsy (Cliff) Kirchner, Kevin (Sue) Kotchevar, Shelley (Peter) Dery; grandchildren, Robbie (Jen) Fogel, Jason (Ana) Kotchevar, Justin (Amy) Kotchevar, Cortney (Matt) Coutu, Tanner Dery; great-grandchildren, Dylan Fogel, Isabelle Coutu, Havyn Coutu, Macy Kotchevar; sister, Terri (Dale) Hansen; sister-in-law, Kitty Shimek: many relatives and friends.
There to welcome Pat home is her beloved infant son; parents, Robert and Vera Shimek; brothers, Richard (Lorraine) Shimek and Mike Shimek.
Ballard-Sunder Funeral Home and Cremation, Prior Lake Chapel, proudly served and cared for the Kotchevar family. www.ballardsunderfuneral.com
