Patricia Dever (nee Smith), 87 of North Chicago, IL, who grew up in Chicago and lived most of her life in Illinois, passed away on August 2, 2022 at Highland Park Hospital.

Patricia was born on July 12, 1935 to Donald and Frieda Smith in Chicago, IL. She was the second of four children (Donald, Carol, and Roger). Patricia lovingly raised 8 children (Cindi, Chuck, Doug, John, Kerry, Trish, Heather, and Tracy). On July 7, 1990 in Waukegan, IL, Pat married the man who brought so much love, caring and laughter into her life, Robert “Bob” Dever.

Pat was hard-working her entire life, doing whatever jobs were required. She was an active member of the Moose Lodge and volunteered alongside Bob at the Township, where they helped with groceries at the pantry. She loved chatting with Diane, her friend and neighbor; and attending her weekly lunches with “The Lunch Bunch" Ladies, some introduced by her dear friend Judi. During her Florida years, Pat and her sister Carol would take their seven children - along with Sons of the Legion & Junior Auxiliary - to visit nursing homes and retirement centers to bring joy and lift the spirits of the residents. Often this included the kids singing, performing skits and plays, or simply bringing flowers or engaging with the elderly in warm conversations.

Pat was a shy person until her middle years, when she realized her opinions were valued. Every decade brought less filter and more feistiness as she developed a quick wit! While hospitalized, she often surprised doctors, nurses, and aides with one-liners. She was also known for her strength, wisdom, heart of gold, and forgiving nature. Pat was always very supportive of her children and encouraged them no matter what the situation. It must be noted that she could cook up a storm in a jiffy, with little on hand. Her oatmeal cookies and homemade apple pies were Legend! One of her fondest memories was having all of her children together for her 87th birthday, with her sister and brother attending as well.

She is survived by her beloved children Cynthia (Tom) Braze, Charles F Pilger Jr, Doug (Sandy) Pilger, John Pilger, Kerry Pilger, Patricia Kazen, Heather Ambrose, and Tracy (Vince) Fagan; and daughter of her heart, Ellen Hunter-Hansen. She leaves 27 cherished Grandchildren, many Great Grandchildren and several Great Great Grandchildren; her siblings Carol Mashoke, Roger (Barb) Smith, along with many loving extended family and great friends. Bob’s nephew, Brian Dever, was always lending a hand to help, check in on her, or invite her for holidays. Her calm, sweet disposition and smile will be missed by all who knew her.

Patricia is preceded in death by her loving husband of 30 years, Robert Paul Dever; her brother Donald William Smith; and her first husband Charles F Pilger Sr.

In lieu of flowers, the family hopes you will consider donating flowers or time to a nursing or veterans home; or donation to a food pantry in your area.

Arrangements entrusted to AquaGreen Dispositions 708-606-0211.

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