Patricia Anne Joyce Hartwig 1926-2021

Patricia was born Sept. 14, 1926, in Sharon, Pa., the only child of Thomas and Nell Joyce, who gifted her with the first sacrament of her Roman Catholic faith Sept. 26, 1926. On that day, at Sacred Heart Church, she died with Christ in the waters of Baptism.

At a very young age, after her father’s sudden passing, she and her mother moved to Leetonia, then eventually made Youngstown home. “Patsy” spent her childhood enjoying athletics more than dolls — riding bikes and playing sports all summer, sledding and ice skating all winter. She attended Ursuline Academy and St. Edward Elementary School. She earned an academic scholarship to Villa Maria High School, then on to St. Elizabeth School of Nursing. She became a registered nurse in 1947, enjoying a meaningful career at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital and later Commercial Shearing — selflessly and compassionately serving the medical needs of others for over 60 years.

At the age of 23, Pat met the love of her life, “Babe,” as they crossed paths at the Palace Theater. They went on their first date in April 1949, celebrated marriage vows at St. Patrick Church on Aug. 5, 1950, and spent every day honoring their vows with joy. Together they built a family of faith and love, raising their eight children to live the teachings of the faith, by modeling it in their own lives every day. After losing her husband suddenly, and too soon, in 1981, Pat modeled her faith even more profoundly. Throughout her life, no matter the struggle or challenge, Pat’s positivity persevered and her level of faith increased.

She enjoyed travel, especially to Chicago, Michigan City and her extended trips to visit her family in Tampa, Fla. Even into her later years, Pat continued her voracity for reading, playing golf, gathering with the gals for bridge, an occasional high ball, Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy!, Words with Friends, card games (especially Skip-Bo), board games, crossword puzzles, outdoor walking and any time spent with family. She remained a daily Mass goer and a fierce prayer warrior her entire life. She had a sincere, humble devotion to the Blessed Mother, wearing out many sets of rosary beads along the way. While her chicken salad and brownies were always famous in the neighborhood, it was her wide-open welcoming door and heart that drew so many to her. Once you entered her heart, you were captured there forever. How blessed are so many to claim that prize!

Besides her faith, nothing was dearer to Pat than family. Pat is among the very last of a large and close-knit group of girlfriends to enter Heaven. A beautiful reunion is about to take place!

Among those she now joins are her parents, her beloved husband, Warren “Babe” Hartwig; children, Tom, Mary, John Hartwig; and son-in-law, Jerry Resatar.

She leaves to cherish her life and honor her legacy her children, Bob, Bill, Patty Resatar, Paul (Pam Scharrer), Susie and Rich Sferra; grandchildren, Brian (KerriAnn) Hartwig, Stacy (John) Best, Cathi (Chuck) Christopher, Matthew (Alesha) Resatar, Johnny (Courtney) Hartwig, P.J., Jason, Kati Hartwig, Anthony and Audrey Sferra; great-grandchildren, Zane Hartwig, Arya and Mahlon Best, Cody, Tyler and Ava Christopher and Emily Resatar. Pat also leaves many nieces, nephews, countless friends and relatives with treasured memories.

Visitation will take place at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021, at St. Edward Roman Catholic Church. The Most Rev. Msgr. Robert Siffrin will celebrate a Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

When reflecting on what she has found to be among the most important lessons in life, Pat responded “Be patient and kind. Be non-judgmental.” May we honor her grace filled life by heeding her wisdom.

In lieu of flowers or food, please consider making a contribution to St. Edward — her faith home for more than 70 years.

The Hartwig family is especially grateful for the pastoral care and friendship of Msgr. Siffrin, Dr. Ravi, Marge Pemberton, St. Elizabeth Mercy Hospital and Hospice of the Valley.

Share your memories on the funeral home website, www.mccauleyfuneral.com.

Arrangements by The McCauley Funeral Home privileged to serve the valley since 1903.

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