Patricia Ann Rodarte Merkle “Pat”, 74, cherished wife of Michael Merkle for over 51 years, devoted daughter of the late Margarito and the late Beatrice Rodarte; treasured sister of Barbara Hall, Doris (John) Stelmachowski, the late Michael Rodarte, and the late Dorothy Rodarte; aunt and great aunt of many.

Pat was the owner of Gallimaufry Gallery with her husband since 1975, which they began on North Halsted Street and which is now nestled in the Lincoln Square neighborhood. She was always thoughtful and creative, curious, and hard working. She had a knack for creating a community of kindness. She loved her family and friends deeply and had a habit of endearing herself to people whom she had just met as they became new friends for life. Pat’s love of life extended to inanimate objects, always naming things humorously; she referred to her walker as “Alice” after the author, when she got a new smaller walker the new one became “little Alice Walker”. Pat genuinely enjoyed life and appreciated even the simplest of things: (a good cup of coffee, fresh baked bread, a slice of pie). She loved going to hot springs, knitting & crocheting, drawing, cooking & collecting cook books, and watching mysteries. Pat was very empathetic, sometimes in the retelling of a sad story which she had heard on the news, she would have to hold back tears as if it had happened to her. Her creative and calm energy that she shared with the world will be missed by many.

A celebration of life will be held in the future in Pat’s honor. For more info 773-774-3232 or https://www.kolbusmayfh.com/o….

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the following charities in Pat's memory:

Heifer International - listed on side bar

Nourishing Hope Food Pantry   www.nourishinghopechi.org

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