Pat Obituary (1935

Patricia (Pat) Stange Poskocil, a beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, loving sister, successful business executive, curious world traveler, passionate philanthropist, and esteemed academic, passed away on Wednesday November 8, 2023. Born on November 30, 1935 to the late Raymond and Cecelia (Engelbrecht) Stange, in Henry, Illinois, she leaves behind a legacy of love, determination, and impactful contributions. Pat was a shining example of academic excellence from an early age. She earned the prestigious title of valedictorian at Henry High School, serving as a testament to her dedication and intellectual prowess. She continued to pursue her passion for education, obtaining a bachelor's degree in education from Illinois State University, a bachelor's degree in business from Elmhurst College, and an MBA from Northwestern Kellogg University, where she graduated with honors. Beyond her academic achievements, Pat was deeply committed to giving back to her community. She was appointed as a commissioner of the Lombard Historic Preservation Commission in 1972 and served until her death. During her tenure she served as Chairman for several years. She was a driving force behind the founding of the Lombard Historical Society in 1970 and the establishment of two museums in Lombard - the Victorian Cottage and the Sheldon Peck Homestead. The Victorian Cottage illustrates life at the turn of the century. The Sheldon Peck Homestead is a verified stop on the Underground Railroad and was accepted into the National Park Service's Network to Freedom. Sheldon Peck was an abolitionist and an itinerant folk artist. Pat was also on the committee responsible for creating "Footsteps on the Tall Grass Prairie," Lombard's historical account published in 1976. She, along with her husband Frank, dedicated numerous volunteer hours to tape memories of Lombard's longtime residents and the descendants of its settlers. In 2017 Pat received the William J. Mueller Lombard Heritage Award. In 2018 Pat was awarded the Lifetime Volunteer Award of Distinction by the Illinois Association of Museums for service to the Lombard Historical Society, the Lombard Historic Preservation Commission and the Sheldon Peck Homestead. LHPC Chair Rita Schneider stated "Without Pat's energy and dedication, we would not have the Peck Homestead. Her focus on its importance in Lombard's history was unending." Pat was also actively involved in the American Association of University Women (AAUW), where she found great joy in empowering women and promoting education. Additionally, she was active in the Lombard Garden Club and the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.). Her dedication to these causes earned her the title of Woman of the Year in Lombard, Illinois, a well-deserved recognition for her outstanding contributions. In line with her passion for academics, Pat began her career as a grade school teacher specializing in Art Education. Later she transitioned to the business world with various roles in sales education and training. Pat traveled the world as a sales executive of AT&T and Lucent Technologies. Post retirement, Pat and Frank moved to Beacon Hill where they enjoyed living amongst many of their lifelong Lombard friends as well as kindling new friendships. Pat touched the lives of many with her quest for inclusiveness and infectious enthusiasm. She was preceded in death by her husband Frank Poskocil. She is survived by her daughters, Cynthia Bonura (Ken Olinsky) and Julia Lohrmann (John), and her granddaughter, Angela Bonura. She is also survived by her siblings Rita Simpkins (the late Lewis), Margi Koors, Sharon Bumgardner, and Raymond Stange (Debbie). She was preceded in death by her sisters Jean Davis (Earl) and Jan Simpkins (Tom). Pat Poskocil's impact and influence extended far beyond the achievements she accomplished. She will be remembered as a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to education, community service, and making a positive difference in the lives of others. In celebration of Patricia's life, a visitation and memorial service will be held on Saturday November 25 at 10am at St. John XXIII Church (formerly St. Mary Catholic Church) in Henry Illinois as well as a celebration of life on Monday November 27 at noon at Beacon Hill in Lombard Illinois. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Lombard Historical Society, the AAUW, Illinois State University, St. John XXIII Church in Henry IL, Sacred Heart Church in Lombard IL, or donate your time to an organization that improves your community.