Patty Grimbol passed away peacefully on October 15th, 2013. All of her beloved children and husband Bill, were there until her very last breath. Her daughter Kristi Thilberg and son Wayne King. Step children, Heather and Justin Grimbol. Chosen child, Crystal Thoennes. Patty also believed that she carried her sisters Kathy, Carol, and Del, in her heart, and so they too were with her until the end; as was Jay Gorcoff, another chosen child, whom she referred to as “my artist”.
Patty had a wondrous life. Though it
was littered with sadness and tragedy, as all lives are, hers was still
filled with laughter and joy. She was a
most gracious and grateful woman. Her very presence could make your day. From
dawn to dusk, Patty was in love with Life. That love animated her being and
faith.
Though Patty made a mighty effort to
support her husband in his new ministry in Racine, Wisconsin, his hometown,
Patty’s soul never left Shelter Island. Though she managed to attract a
staggering number of friends in Racine, it was the Island which would always
serve as home. She spoke of it often, and with great fondness and respect.
Patty will be missed. She adored
Kristi, and marveled at her competence and care. She treasured Wayne, and
remained his fiercest advocate. She managed to pierce Justin’s thick grief, and
become the mother figure for which he longed. She spiritually adopted Heather,
and Crystal became her personal earth angel.
Patty cherished her grandchildren,
Adam, Evan, and Eric, and kept them snug in her prayers. She reminisced daily
of her family and friends on the Island. These remembrances brought her many
good laughs and good cries. Her laugh remains unforgettable. Her tears flowed
with such ease and tender mercy.
Patty was so proud to have managed
the Senior Nutrition Program. She also saw in Karin Bennett, someone who would
make all of her dreams come true for the seniors of the Island. She loved her
church, and found there, a chance to minister in myriad ways. From the middle
of May until the middle of September, there was never a night at the manse
which did not see from two to ten youth guests. She kept the fridge full, and
her private stash of chocolate well hidden.
We will celebrate Patty’s remarkable
life on Sunday, December 1st, at 4:00 p.m. at the Shelter Island
Presbyterian Church. The service will feature several Christmas carols,
candlelight, and a chocolate bonanza of a reception. Patty would be so grateful
to the church ladies for making this wish come true.
Pastor Bill and Rev. Anne will
co-officiate the service. Patty instructed Bill to keep it short. We all know
that is a joke, but Patty did enjoy being the punch line. Join us for a chance
to catch the Christmas spirit, and to rejoice in a legacy rich in compassion
and forgiveness and fun.
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