Patricia A. Dworniczek (nee Dudy), 74, of St. John, Indiana, passed away Thursday, February 15, 2024 in the arms of family surrounded by so much love.  She is survived by her daughter, Kelly (Frank Baldassare) Dworniczek, adored granddaughter Nola Belle Baldassare, dedicated caretaker Justina Bwalya, brother Michael (Suzie) Dudy, progenies Kathy (Bob) Jurgeto and Thomas (Lisa) Kawalec, beloved nieces and nephews, Carolyn (Garrett) Adams, Mark Dudy, Janice Pipgrass, and Craig Dudy.  She is proceeded in death by her devoted husband and soul mate of 47 years Lenny, brothers Paul Dudy and recently Thomas and Kathy Dudy and James Dudy. Patti grew up and raised her family in Lansing, Illinois and graduated from T.F. South high school.  A passionate foodie, Patti loved cooking, experimenting, and most decidedly eating exciting food.  A culinary mastermind, Patti was the 1982 Lansing Home Journal “Cook of the Year” for her original recipe of Broccoli Souffle (which according to her daughter was as awful as it sounds, but to each their own).  Her spot-on Polish delicacies were legendary –  so much so that she shared her talents teaching a polish cooking class at the local community college for many years.  Patti was also very dedicated to caring for animals and animal rescue.  So much so, to the chagrin of those sharing her home, that meant you never knew what new menagerie would greet you when you came home.  Dogs, cats, iguanas, anoles, mice, rats, birds, hamsters, monitor lizards, bunnies, she lovingly cared for – and habitually overfed – all of them.  Have you ever seen an obese mouse?  Patti had one.  Perhaps the greatest thing about Patti was her big heart, so her collecting did not end with animals.  It extended to any people who might be in need as well and her home was always filled with neighbors, friends, and even people she met at the grocery store if there was any comfort she could provide.

Patti also brought a tangible touch of magic to much of what she did.  She wrapped the prettiest packages with homemade bows, wrote poetry, painted with watercolors, planned elaborate themed parties, and always had a passion for creating a special moment.  She loved holidays and delighted in finding the perfect gift.

Most of all, the pride of Patti’s life was her daughter, Kelly, and granddaughter Nola Belle whom she loved with all of her heart. They are so lucky to have had her for as long as they did and are grateful for how much of Patti’s soul, kindness, and magic will live on through them.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the exceptional Treasured Friends pet rescue: www.treasuredfriendsrescue.org or Chicago French Bulldog Rescue: www.frenchieporvous.org.

Friends may visit the family on Sunday, February 25^th from 2 – 4:30 pm at Kish Funeral Home, 10000 Calumet Ave., Munster, IN with a prayer service starting at 4:00 pm.

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