Patricia "Patti" S. Dotson

Patricia "Patti" Sue Dotson, 64, of La Porte, IN, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at home on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.

Patti was born on November 29, 1959, in Chicago, IL, to Roger and Virginia (Buckels) Ward.

On March 8, 1996, in Geneva, IL, she married Donald who survives. Also surviving are her children, Sean (Patty) Tomei of Portage and Christopher (Mia) Tomei of La Porte; Shelley Chopak of La Porte, Donald (Melissa) Dotson of Stevensville, MI, and Jennifer Johnson of Elyria, OH; Grandchildren, Alyssa Tomei, Julian Tomei, Kyle (Ana Kaplinski) Johnson, Cicilia Tomei, Aniella Tomei, Isaiah Tomei, Addyson Dotson, Cadence Dotson, Emma Johnson, and Taven Johnson; siblings, Peggy (Mike) Gorman of La Porte, Sandi (Ron Ebeling) Keller of La Porte, and Tim (Michele) Ward of Battle Creek, MI; many nieces and nephews; as well as her constant companion and kayak buddy, Goji.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, William Ward; and grandson, Kade Chopak.

Patti had a bachelors degree and also taught horticulture at the College of Dupage. She also was involved in planning and maintaining the Navy Pier Garden atriums.

Patti enjoyed volunteering her time at the Pax Center and the local community gardens.

In addition to her love of horticulture and gardening, she loved reading, especially to her kids and grandchildren, with her favorite books being those of Dr. Seuss. She also enjoyed sewing, camping, kayaking, and sitting around a campfire. Patti's family will fondly remember how she made Christmas extra special by her cookie baking and Christmas decorating with her grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at State Street Community Church, 209 State St., La Porte, IN with Pastor Nate Loucks officiating.

A time of visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until the time of service on Saturday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to The Pax Center, 605 Washington St., La Porte, IN 46350.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.cutlercares.com.