Patricia Ann Kuboske

Patricia “Patti” Ann Kuboske, age 74, passed away on September 25th at 10:23 PM after a short courageous battle with cancer. Years ago, Patti said that she was hoping that her death would occur late in the afternoon after a long pontoon ride. Although not on the water, Patti did pass away surrounded by family who loved her deeply at Raclin Hospice House in Mishawaka.

Patti was born on October 8th, 1949, in South Bend, Indiana to Phyllis M. (Smith) Kuboske and Lon J. Kuboske, both who preceded her in death.  Patti graduated from John Adams High School in 1967 where she won the award “best sense of humor.” A trait which many who came to know her would have concurred. Patti graduated from Western Michigan University (WMU) in 1971. Patti’s travels of 18 years, working with the SYDA Foundation, brought her free and caregiving attitude to people all over the world, touching the lives of everyone who had a conversation with her which often led to laughter and thought. Once back home she returned to WMU where she attained her master’s degree in 1993 and began a career in counselling with children. Patti used her experiences abroad to help those around the community through her own counseling practice, Phoenix Counseling Services Inc., influencing so many lives for the better.  Patti continued to work until three weeks prior to her death telling her clients she was taking a short leave of absence. Patti is a member of the National Association of Social Workers.

Patti is survived by her sister, Karen Karason; her brother-in-law, John Karason; and nephew, Michael Karason, all from South Bend; as well as her beloved Box turtle, Goldie. She is also survived by many loving cousins whom she cared for deeply and looked forward to the time spent together.

Patti lived a full life with passions for gardening and cooking, as well as the relaxing things in life like floating on the water on a raft or running the pontoon on Diamond Lake. She loved many sports especially Notre Dame football and women’s basketball as well as the Indiana Fever.  Patti’s love of music was evident to all who knew her. She enjoyed going to concerts as well as listening to all types of music, especially Elton John.  Patti loved to make many flavors of margaritas especially on the 4th of July with her cousins. Her love of animals resulted in many rescues.

Patti often beat to her own drum and lived life like an adventure. Her ability to listen was unmatched and was her primary tool to help others through hard times. Patti touched the lives of so many people who are better off for having known her, supported by the outpouring of love and reflection since her passing. She will be missed by all who crossed her path.

Cremation has taken place. After her diagnosis, Patti wished others to not focus on the end but rather the whole of her life. She did not want a mass or visitation and we as her family will honor her last wishes.   A celebration of life is planned for a future date.

Anyone wishing to contribute in Patti’s memory may do so to the following: Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka IN 46545, The CASIE Center, 533 N. Niles Avenue, South Bend, IN 46617, or the Rebecca Binkowski Memorial Fund at WMUALUMNI.org.

Patti,

May you Rest in Peace

May the road rise up to meet you

May the wind always be at your back

May the sun shine warm upon your face and rain fall soft upon your fields

And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.  We love you always.