In Memory
Patricia Ann Bolka
Jan. 12, 1926 - Sep. 19, 2003
Patricia peacefully departed this world on Friday, September 19, with her children at her side along with Father Ron, whose guidance and strength were a great comfort.
Patricia was a lifelong resident of South Bend, born of the union of Ethel Marie (Phelan) and Bernard Joseph Brehmer on January 12, 1926. Pat was a member of the first graduating class of John Adams High School, and graduated from UCLA in 1949 with a degree in Business Administration and Accounting.
On October 4, 1952, she married the love of her life, Bernard Joseph Bolka Jr., in St. Joseph Catholic Church. According to Pat, "There was never a cross word in 46 years of marriage." This loving couple was blessed with six children and 11 grandchildren.
Mom was interested in many things. She had been a member of AAUW and The Christ Child Society for many years. Mom particularly enjoyed her bridge club friends, lunches with the Valley Girls, the Assemblers Dance Club, and the Cubs.
Pat is survived by her children, Mary Pat (Michael) Bieganski and Bernard Joseph (Peggy) Bolka, III, both of Granger, IN., Ann (Charlie) Kelderhouse of Atlanta, GA., Carolyn (Doren) Michael of Grand Island, NE., Thomas (Joan) Bolka of Herndon, VA., and Michael Joseph Bolka of South Bend; her brother, John (Jack) Brehmer of South Bend; and her 11 grandchildren.
Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Bernie; her parents; her loving stepmother, Annabelle Brehmer; and her brother, Walter.
Pat worked for E. K. Williams accounting firm, Valley Lea Dairies, and retired from St. John Business Machines.
Very special thanks to the many people who helped us care for mom during the past few years, particularly the staff at Alterra Sterling House, and mom's table-mate Sally whom she dearly loved.
And finally, mom's life was enriched by her son Michael's tender loving care for which we are all truly grateful.
Visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday at the Hickey Funeral Home on Cleveland Road. The Rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday at Christ The King Catholic Church on State Road 933N.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Christ Child Society.
05/29/2021 DEC
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