Wilma P. 'Pat' Messick, formerly of Du Quoin

Wilma P. Messick, 82, known as "Pat" or "Patti" to her family and friends, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2020.

Pat was born in 1937 in Chicago, Illinois to William and Wilma O'Rourek. She grew up in Du Quoin, Illinois.

Pat completed her high school coursework in three years. Then, at age 16, she began classes at Southern Illinois University. She returned to Du Quoin in 1955 to graduate with her high school class.

Pat was involved in Hi Tri, Speech Club and the Debate Team. During her junior year she added the activities of the Magnavox Newspaper, the Flashlight Yearbook and she was the spelling champion. Pat had roles in two plays and also played the oboe and the piano.

She graduated from SIU with a BS in Chemistry and she also completed part of her Master's Degree before getting a job as a chemist in Chicago. Pat later switched to Real Estate where she had a very long career.

Pat loved her family and friends and she was an honest and kind person. She was interested and conversant in world affairs and liked to debate politics. She was an avid reader who loved classical music and intellectual conversations. She took on challenges and no task was too difficult for her. Pat loved cats and had many feline companions throughout her life.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her sisters, Barbara (Harry) and Kathy (Don); and by six nieces and nephews.

In addition to her immediate family, Pat leaves behind dear neighbors and friends who were immensely helpful and who provided great comfort to Pat and her family since we could not be together due to the pandemic.

Graveside services will be held when Pat's family is able to gather.