She was born in Newark to the late George and Jean (Purdy) Marvel. At the age of 14, Patti met Billy, the love of her life, and together they would devote over 49 loving years as husband and wife. Together they raised their two children, Kelly and BJ, in Toms River before making Florida their home. For 19 years, Patti worked for Toms River Township starting as a clerk in the assessor’s office, and eventually achieving certification as a tax assessor. She thoroughly enjoyed her time working as a field inspector before retiring.
When she wasn’t working or raising her two children, Patti loved going to the movies and Pizza Friday with her friends and family. She was an extremely talented and avid crafter—even designing many events for her Florida community Ladies 9-hole Golf Association. Patti was a member of the Ladies 9-hole league for many years and even scored a hole-in-one at Bey Lea golf course in Toms River. She loved the beach and time spent near the ocean when she lived part-time in Ortley Beach for many years. Patti particularly delighted in the colorful Florida Gulf coast sunsets. Her family fondly recall her go-getter attitude and how it led to her becoming the first President of Dover Township Municipal Employees Union. Patti lived her life with a strong, unwavering faith in Jesus.
She is predeceased by her parents George and Jean (Purdy) Marvel; her sister Barbara; and her brothers George and Tommy.
She is survived by her beloved husband William (Bill) Kraska; her daughter Karin (Kelly) Kraska and her husband Michael Baklarz Jr.; her son William (BJ) Kraska Jr. and his wife Kelley; and her brother Michael (Mickey) Marvel and his wife Joanne. Patti is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, grand-kits and a grand-pup.
A Memorial Mass for Patricia will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday September 28, 2023 at St Thomas the Apostle RC Church, 210 US-206, Sandyston, NJ 07826, followed by a Celebration of Patti’s Life with additional details to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation, 99 Sparta Avenue, Newton, NJ 07860 or Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.
