Patricia Choffin

A woman of strength, vision, and opinion Patricia Irene Choffin, 89, lived her life with an undauntable commitment to serving others. Genuinely devoted to those she served, Pat relished nothing more than organizing and pouring her passions into her work. She was a woman who embraced life's joys and challenges equally, recognizing the gifts in both and refusing to let life's disappointments slow her down. An inspiration to those who knew her, Pat leaves behind a brilliant legacy of generosity and loyalty. The beginning of 1929 continued to ride the decade's roaring wave of peace, prosperity, and hope. The nation celebrated the recent inventions of Penicillin, the iron lung, bubble gum, and the Yo-Yo, as well as Charles Lindbergh's Congressional Medal of Honor and Amelia Earhart becoming the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic. As the wave of sweeping social and economic growth rapidly increased nowhere was there more hope for the future than in the Battle Creek home of Charles and Bernice (Edwards) Choffin as they welcomed their daughter Patricia into their family on January 6th. Growing up on the family farm during the 30s and 40s formative years were centered around the values of hard work, self-reliance, and caring for those you love. Along with her siblings, Shirley, William, and Justin, Pat contributed to the family by shouldering her responsibilities with a sense of purpose and honor. From her earliest days, Pat possessed a keen eye for detail and an unwavering stand for excellence. She knew how to get things done, and she knew how to get them done right. In 1947, Pat began working for Michigan as an operator. Over her 14 years with the company she steadily increased her responsibilities eventually becoming the Assistant Chief Operator. Pat also learned to fly during these years. 1961 afforded Pat the opportunity to work for Upjohn Company. For the next 31 years, Pat poured her gifts and talents into performing her duties with excellence. Her commitment was honored when she won the W.E. Upjohn Prize for exemplary service over one's career. At the time of her retirement in 1992, Pat was the manager of Office Management Services. Never one to sit still for long, Pat started working at Bravo Restaurant in 1993 as an Administrative Assistant. With signature determination and precision, Pat served the company in this capacity for 25 years. Ask anyone who knew her and they will quickly tell you that Pat was an extraordinarily loyal and giving person. In addition to approaching her professional work with devotion, she brought the same passion to the many volunteer positions she held over the years. She unhesitatingly donated her time, talents, and money to various environmental organizations in hopes of being the change she wished for the world. She also served on the executive council to the Kalamazoo Senior Service of RSVP. Both the American Cancer Society and the Kalamazoo Nature Center benefitted from Pat's generosity as did Helping Hands of Michigan. Though Pat was attached to doing things her own way and she rarely hesitated to make her thoughts known, her integrity was never questioned. Pat did what she said she was going to do by the time she said she would do it. Precise, direct, and organized Pat always got things done and done well! With tremendous fortitude, Pat faced various health challenges with the same strong-will she embraced any of life's demands. Despite increasing physical limitations, she would show up for her volunteer work determined to make a positive difference for others. With tremendous resolve, Pat generously gave of her heart in hopes of lightening others' burdens. In the little leisure time Pat allowed herself, she loved to play Scrabble and various card games--especially Cribbage. She loved the game of golf for it simultaneously allowed her to enjoy being outdoors while playing a challenging game. Her love of the game led to her hosting many String Tournaments. Without a doubt, the world feels less certain in the absence of Pat's steadfast presence. And while she will be dearly missed, Pat will also be lovingly remembered. Whether it be sharing our time and talents in service of others, teeing off at on the back nine of a favorite golf course, dominating a game of cards, or putting one foot in front of the other regardless of life's storms, Pat's family and friends will continue to feel the eternal spark of her legacy in their hearts and lives. Patricia I. Choffin, of Portage, passed away on Saturday, December 8, 2018, at the age of 89. Survived by her brother: William Choffin, of Battle Creek; sister-in-law: Janet Choffin, of AZ; brother-in-law: James Arnold, of IL; and all her special friends at Bravo Restaurant. She is preceded in death by her brother Justin and sister Shirley. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 12, 2019, at 11am at the McCowen & Secord Life Story Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002 (269-344-5600). A gathering will be held that same day prior to the service beginning at 10am. Please visit Pat's webpage at www.mccowensecord.com where you can read her life story, sign the guestbook, and share a memory. Those who wish may make contributions to the American Cancer Society and/or Kalamazoo Nature Center.