Patricia Ann (Pat) Zanella
ESCANABA — Patricia Ann (Pat) Zanella left this world Feb. 17, 2018, and was welcomed into heaven with open arms. Patricia’s life was based on making others happiest before herself, from volunteering as a lunch lady at Holy Name Catholic School for many years to becoming Volunteer of the Year at Christian Park Village. Her life revolved around putting others before herself. Pat’s faith in God and true kindness was her example of a fulfilling life. Those who knew her loved her and she loved unconditionally.
She was born on April 29, 1931, the daughter of Raymond and Methodia (Karpinski) Gervais. Pat taught school in Skanee, Mich., in the early 50s and went on to marry Byron “Big Z” Zanella on June 26, 1954, in Ashland, Wis. He preceded her in death in 2003. Pat was a devoted wife and mother. Together they raised two children: Dean (Connie) Zanella, of Amherst, Wis., and Gina (Steve) Davidson of Escanaba. Pat’s children were the center of her world from beginning to end.
Pat was also blessed with five grandchildren, whom she cherished immensely: Anton “AJ” Zanella, Gracie Zanella , Jason (Rachel) Davidson, Erin Davidson and Sutton Davidson.
Pat was fortunate to have found love again late in life and married Robert Milton Jensen in 2008. He also preceded her in death in 2010.
She leaves to survive: Dean, Connie, Anton, and Gracie Zanella; Gina, Steve, Jason, Rachel, and Erin Davidson; one brother, George Gervais of Kenosha, Wis.; one sister, Ellie Wombacher of Golden Valley, Minn., and many nieces and nephews.
Pat was also preceded in death by her infant grandson, Sutton Davidson; her parents, and five siblings, Raymond Gervais, Virginia Olby, Rosemary Carroll, Frank Gervais, and Agnes Gervais.
Pat’s family humbly invites you to Patricia’s celebration of life on Thursday, Feb. 22, at St. Anne Catholic Church from 1 to 3 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will follow visitation at 3 p.m. at church with Fr. Francis DeGroot officiating. A meal will be served in the parish hall following mass.
Entombment will be in the Gardens of Rest Mausoleum….in the “WALL OF FAME”. Love you Mom!!
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Holy Name Catholic School.
The Allo Coolman Funeral Homes are assisting the Zanella family. Please visit allofh.com to send condolences to her family.