Patricia Fitzwater

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It is with the greatest sadness, greatest respect, and greatest joy, that we tell you that our Mom, Nana, and friend, Patricia Helena Fitzwater, nee Cartwright, born November 25, 1938, in Amesbury, England, passed from this world to her Heavenly place Friday, August 20, 2021, of natural causes, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, O’Fallon, IL, surrounded by her loving daughters.

Our Mom, Nana, and Aunt Paddy has filled our lives and home with her love, support, adventure, and British sass. She instilled into all of us the joy of travel, and power of family. This spunky lady had her first apartment at the age of 16, working as a bookkeeper for the sole purpose of saving money for the perfect yearly holiday. She married an American GI, and they made their home in the states. She raised a family in a country that was entirely new to her. She was tenacious, hardworking, and family oriented. She was always supportive, even if our ideas weren’t the best.

Nana was a ferocious traveler and a scuba diver into her 70’s. We have all had some grand dive trips, with Nana blowing bubbles at our side. What a blessing and privilege it is to be able to say that.

This “Queen” was also all about the small things. The beauty of an English garden, a fat bumble bee, or just a quiet moment. The most important thing she has taught ALL of us is how to make a proper cup of tea. DO NOT MESS this up.

Nana blessed Gavin with a love of travel, Neil and William with a love of scuba diving, and Eva with the beauty and love for art. Nana is their cheerleader and that is a continuum.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sara and Reginald Cartwright; and a sister, Maureen (Robert) Dean.

Surviving are two daughters, Joanna (Joe) Ritchie,  and Sara (Carl) Weber;
four loving grandchildren, Gavin Yociss, Neil Ritchie, Eva Weber, and William Weber IV;
caring friends, Gary and Jan Fitzwater;
and loving nieces and nephews, Sharen Martin, Michael Dean, Robert Dean, and Richard Dean.

We LOVE this sassy, kind Mom, Nana, and friend. I have no doubt that you are enjoying the perfect CUP OF TEA with Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Maureen, Uncle Dean, and your best friend, Evelyn. Give them the biggest hug from us all.

Joanna and I are blessed beyond words being at your bedside. You held OUR hands as you took your final breath. That was your gift to us.

Until we meet again, KNOW that you are loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Divers Alert Network, https://apps.dan.org. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Funeral:  Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, August 28, 2021, at Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, IL, with Rev. Chris Spelbring officiating.

Burial will be at Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, IL.

Condolences:

11 Comments on Patricia Fitzwater

Jane Hagge said : Guest Report Jan 15, 2022 at 7:05 AM

That is a beautiful tribute to a delightful lady. Pat was a special friend. I Think of y’all often and recall many wonderful cups of tea. We all love Them. My Heart goes out to you. Always remember she is with you . Joy and laughter and happy memories!!! She is so proud of y’all! Sincerely, Jane and family.

  • Rome
  • GA
Sue Guetterman said : Guest Report Sep 15, 2021 at 3:10 PM

So sorry for your loss. What a beautifully written obituary!

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
Thomas and Anita Kraemer said : Guest Report Aug 28, 2021 at 10:30 AM

Joanna and Sara, Anita and I were saddened to learn of your mother’s passing. The news made us think back to all the good times in the neighborhood. During the short time that your mom worked in our office her thirst for knowledge was quite apparent. When she took up photography, she had countless questions for my partner Gary. We will miss her wit and great sense of humor. Thinking of you today.

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
Molly Pratl said : Guest Report Aug 26, 2021 at 12:44 PM

Joanna and Sara, Your Mom was such a lovely lady I am sorry for your loss. I enjoyed my banking family and Pat and Joanna always will hold a special place in my heart. Sending prayers and hugs your way Molly

  • Belleville
  • IL
Elizabeth said : Guest Report Aug 25, 2021 at 3:38 PM

Dear Sara and Jo, my deepest condolences. Your mother was always such a great lady. And she raised two wonderful women. You’re both in my heart. Liz?

  • Belleville
  • IL
Joyce Neuner said : Guest Report Aug 25, 2021 at 1:20 PM

Joanna and Sara I am so sorry to hear this. I worked with Pat at the bank and I think of her often. Condolences.

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
Tracey Hartmann said : Guest Report Aug 24, 2021 at 8:25 AM

Dear Joanna and Sara It has been years since I have seen Pat and you Joanna, but I think of you often. You both have my deepest sympathy. Pat was the kindest person I have ever met and always had a smile on her face. The best of the best.

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
Pat Robertson said : Guest Report Aug 23, 2021 at 9:29 AM

Joanna, Sara, family and friends. Mothers who become friends are the best kind of people. I didn't get to meet Pat until later in life but I always enjoyed her sense of humor and love of life. Her presence will always be there in the sights sounds and places you all shared. Indulge in the gift of all the memories.

  • Sullivan
  • MO
Deb Wellinghoff said : Guest Report Aug 23, 2021 at 6:13 AM

Joanna, Sara, and all the rest of Pat’s family I send my deepest condolences. It was the perfect gift that the two incredible women who Pat brought into this world were there holding her hand as she crossed the thin veil between this life on earth and that which is beyond. As the sadness settles in may you be comforted by celebrating the amazing life well lived. Pat’s salty wit will be something I will always remember and cherish.

  • Sullivan
  • Missouri
Christine said : Guest Report Aug 22, 2021 at 3:14 PM

Sara and Joanne, my sincere condolences on your loss. I have only the fondest memories of your mom, even when she was “sharing her concern” with some of our behaviors. Haha! I could listen to her speak for hours, just loved her accent. I remember her cats, her making tea and loving the outdoors…my regrets for not getting to share a glass of wine and some memories with her before she returned home. I like to think she and my mom are perhaps sitting side by side and now watching over us again. God bless. Much love.

  • Belleville
  • Il
Sondra (Sondy) Walker said : Guest Report Aug 22, 2021 at 1:11 PM

You have my sincere sympathy for the loss of your beloved Mother, Nana and Friend. She was blessed to have such a loving family.

  • Swansea
  • Illinois

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