WESTFIELD – Patricia A. (Gaffney) Garstka, 71, of Westfield, died, Monday, October 1, 2012 in Boston. She was born in Springfield on January 22, 1941 to William and Enid (St. Jacques) Gaffney.
Pat graduated from Chicopee High School. She was employed as a secretary at Dr. Long and Dr. Kingra’s office, prior to that, she was employed in the Human Resource Department at Noble Hospital. She was also a legal secretary for the firm of Fein, Emond and Applebaum in Springfield, MA. and was a volunteer at the Cancer House of Hope in Westfield.
Pat was the widow of Frank P. Garstka who died in 1982. She leaves three sons, Gregory F. Garstka and his wife Sunshine of Southwick, Michael J. Garstka and Erick E. Garstka and his wife Jennifer all of Westfield. She also leaves nine grandchildren; Shannon, Amber, Matthew, Mitchell, Alexander, Riley, Peter, Adam and Amanda. A great grandson Grant (by Shannon).She also leaves her loving partner of twenty seven years, Frank DeGeorge and his grandchildren, Taylor and Emily DeGeorge and Molly Ivers. In addition Pat leaves a brother-in-law, James Brennan of Westfield, and was predeceased by a sister, Jacqueline Brennan.
Patricia was an accomplished painter and artist who worked primarily in oil and watercolor. Her favorite place was the beach. She always had a positive attitude, understanding and kind words for the people who crossed her path. She made the world a better place, her many friends and family we will always hold her in our hearts.
The funeral will be Friday, October 5, 2012 at 8:15 a.m. from the Firtion-Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 9:15 a.m. in St. Mary’s Church. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Calling hours will be Thursday from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Donations in memory of Patricia may be made to the Cancer House of Hope, 86 Court St., Westfield, MA 01085.
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