Patricia Ann Datko

Patricia Ann (Pat) Datko (nee Wiencek), of DeWitt, MI, passed away with her loving family by her side on Friday, March 8, 2024. Pat was born on September 19, 1935 in Hamtramck, MI to the late Joseph and Jean (Lewandowski) Wiencek.

Pat grew up in Hamtramck and graduated from St. Florian High School. On September 3, 1954, she married Donald T. (Don) Datko, and eventually they moved to Warren, MI. She and Don were married for 61 years before Don’s passing.

Throughout her professional life, Patricia demonstrated dedication and skill in various roles at Ford Motor Company, including as a key punch operator, data processor, and plant engineering office assistant. Pat retired from Ford’s in 1990, after 37 years of service.

Pat’s hobbies included crocheting, knitting, and needlepoint on hand-painted canvases. Her hands produced not only beautiful creations but also warm, loving gifts that will be cherished by those fortunate enough to have received them.

Pat also enjoyed traveling. Whether exploring new destinations, like Switzerland and Italy with her grandson, or revisiting cherished places, like San Francisco with her granddaughter and, of course, Disney World, she embraced these experiences that enriched her life. Pat enjoyed cooking Polish food, and her family and friends were the fortunate recipients of her delicious meals. A dedicated shopper, Patricia knew how to find the perfect gift and delighted in the simple pleasures of retail therapy. However, it was the time spent with her family that truly brought her the greatest joy.

Pat will be remembered for her generosity, caring spirit, kindness, and wit. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Pat is survived by her daughter/her “partner in crime,” Cindy (Dean) Wilcox; cherished grandchildren Nicole (Abe) Schaaf, and Rob (Brielle) Hollebrands, and great-grandchildren, Lewis, Evalyn, Della, Emilia and Georgia; and dear sister Nancy (Ricky) Zalewski. Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Don, in 2015.

Visitation for Pat will be held Wednesday, March 13, 2024 from 4pm - 7pm with a rosary service to begin at 6:00pm at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, 205 E. Washington St. DeWitt, MI 48820. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 11 am with visitation one hour prior (10 am -11 am) at St. Jude Catholic Church, 801 N Bridge St. DeWitt, MI 48820. Breakfast in the Church Community Room will follow the mass. Interment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 25800 W 10 Mile Rd., Southfield, MI, at 2:30 pm.