Patricia "Pat" Drost

Patricia “Pat” Ann Drost, 79, of Charlevoix, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 1, 2021.  She was born on March 30, 1942, the daughter of Geneva “Jenny” “GG” & James “Smitty” Smith, and was raised in the Detroit area.  She moved to Charlevoix her senior year of high school and graduated Charlevoix class of 1960.  She spent the majority of her career as a secretary for Charlevoix Public Schools and was loved by the staff and students for her sparkling personality, upbeat and spunky attitude and love for all things Rayders. Throughout the years, you could find her selling tickets and concessions at sporting events, proudly wearing the maroon and white or Rayder mascot, sitting front and center to support performing arts, and helping her “other kids” navigate their high school years.

Despite many life obstacles including the loss of her arm in 2011, Pat lived her life with gratefulness, enthusiasm, optimism and humor.  She has been described by many as the most inspiring person they knew with a smile and laugh that brought joy to everyone she encountered. She made an impact on the young and old alike as a loving, kind, sweet, courageous blessing to all who knew her.

Pat was incredibly proud of her kids and grandkids and took every opportunity to tell stories of their achievements, no matter how large or small.  She was blessed with 3 children, Kelly (Ken) Rogers, Treasure (Tom) Eggers, Dan (Lori) Drost; 7 grandchildren, Autumn (Andy) Tall, Amanda (Bill) Niswander, Brandyn Davis (Brianna Clark), Bryan (Jammie) Eggers, Jennifer Eggers, Kayla (Jesse) Kuzel, Hero Parker-Drost; and 13 great grandchildren, Morgan, Kelsey, Ryan, Able, Dominic, Alex, Brynn, Madison, Lucas, Acadia, Cassidy, Owen, and Piper.

In addition to her kids, everyone who knew Pat, knew she loved Elvis, but she had many other loves as well.   She loved the flag of our country and displayed the red, white, and blue whenever possible. She loved Venetian and would be the first to secure her parade spot on Bridge Street and her spot in the park for the day’s festivities.  She loved morning coffee and social visits at the Flap.  She loved to travel and anyone who traveled with her on her Caribbean cruises, Cedar Point trips, or girls’ weekends were blessed with memorable moments and a whole lot of laughs.  She loved Cedar Point so much that she has an anniversary brick on the central walkway in her honor!!  And she loved baskets, designer and souvenir bags, beach towels and more!! But most importantly, she loved Jesus as her Lord and Savior and she lived her life as a testimony of faith to others.   No matter how she fit into your life, she will be missed by her family, friends, and the Charlevoix community.

For her service, Pat requested a party filled with love and laughter for her friends and family.  A Celebration of Life Open House is planned for September 25, 2021 from 11a – 2p at Castle Farms in Charlevoix in the East Garden Room (be sure to get yourself a pair of Crocs (her favorite shoes) to wear to the event).  In lieu of flowers or cards, she would want you to give Jesus a chance; to let her, “Grandma Pat,” and her legacy be a part of your testimony of faith --  nothing would bring her more joy.  If you wish to honor her additionally, you may donate to your home church, the Charlevoix Venetian Festival, or the CF Foundation.

Arrangements are in the care of the Winchester Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Sign her online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com