Wathan, Patricia Kay

Patricia Kay Wathan, “Pat” passed away Monday, Sept. 16, 2013, in Dubuque, Iowa, following an extended illness.

Pat was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on Feb. 27, 1940, to Edwin L. Wathan and Elizabeth Ann Wathan.

Pat was a multitalented and creative person. Graduating from Franklin High School in 1959, she enrolled on a scholarship to Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa, and later studied voice under Ruth Pinkerton, eventually following her to New York to study privately in preparation for singing at the Metropolitan Opera. There she met and married Arthur Kolk, having two daughters from their union: Elizabeth and Kristen.

Pat was also a very accomplished artist. Pat moved to Galena, Ill., in 1984 and while living in the tri-state region, she promoted her artistic talent and had numerous exhibits throughout the tri-state area, becoming well known and respected in the artistic and business community. She is fondly remembered for her renditions of local buildings and homes to the delight of their owners.

Pat's working career focused at Area Residential Care in Dubuque as a marketing coordinator placing many people to work. She continued to retirement in 2005. It was during this time she developed many great friendships with people attracted to her wit, creativity and sense of fun. She was also affiliated with the Professional Women's Network.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Arthur; and her daughter, Kris who passed away earlier this year.

She is survived by her other daughter, Elizabeth Carter of Campton Hills, Ill.; and her brother, Michael Wathan, his wife, Barbara and their son, Bradley of Erie, Pa.

She is also survived by her grandson, Zachary Ornatek, his wife Brittany and their son, Matthew.

In life, Pat enjoyed her art, her work, her close friends and family.

Pat Wathan's family would like to extend their sincere gratitude for the loving care, kindness and support provided by her close friends, Mary Jo, Jane and Jo during her illness. It was their selfless care that helped Pat through her last months of life. She will sadly missed by all!

Visitation will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home in Cedar Rapids from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday.

A memorial fund has been established in her name.

Online condolences may be left at under “obituaries.”

Published in The Gazette Sept. 19, 2013.