Patricia A. Vanderhorst

Patricia Ann Vanderhorst ("Pat"), age 94, was born on May 29, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, to Frank and Gertrude (Kowalski) Rohs. She was the eldest of three daughters, predeceased by her sisters Marilyn (1936-2015) and Frances (1935, who passed away at nine months old). Pat was of Austrian and Hungarian descent on her father's side and Polish on her mother's side. She is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Gertrude Rohs, her sisters, Marilyn and Frances Rohs; her stepson and daughter-in-law, Gerry and Rita Vanderhorst; and her beloved husband, Nicholas Vanderhorst. She is survived by her children: Mark (Tammy) Vanderhorst, Cheryl (Rob) Brindley, Brian (Kathy) Vanderhorst, her loving grandchildren: Kris (Bryan) Webb, Gerry (Karla) Vanderhorst; Nick (Samantha) Brindley, Robby Brindley Jr. cherished great-grandchildren: Emerson Vanderhorst, Awbrye Webb, Rylee Vanderhorst, Boden Brindley, and Hudson Brindley. Patricia was raised Catholic in Detroit near 6 Mile and Gratiot on Flanders Street. As the eldest daughter, she grew up in a hardworking family-her father a bread truck driver and her mother a factory worker and talented ceramic and painting artist. Pat attended St. David Catholic School from kindergarten through 12th grade, where she developed strong skills in reading, writing, math, and penmanship. After graduating in 1949, she began her career as a legal secretary in the Fisher Building, known for her exceptional typing and shorthand abilities and admired by the attorneys she supported. On February 22, 1958, she married Nicholas Vanderhorst. Together they raised four children: Mark, Cheryl, Brian, and Gerry, Nick's oldest son. Pat created a home filled with love, structure, and fun. She was highly organized and a natural planner, ensuring her family enjoyed a modest but adventure filled life. The family motto was, "A family that plays together stays together." Pat and Nick were active members of the Fire Siders camping club, where they formed lifelong friendships and created countless cherished memories. Camping and boating were among Pat's favorite pastimes. She also bowled in a neighborhood league for more than 20 years, earning awards for her many "over 200" games. A creative spirit, she enjoyed sewing, ceramics, card making, and painting-following in her mother's artistic footsteps. Pat loved hosting gatherings, planning parties, and celebrating every holiday. She even planned her own birthday parties. She truly was " FUN !" Faith was a core part of Pat's life. Although raised Catholic, she and Nick chose to raise their family in the Lutheran church. They were devoted members of Redemption Lutheran Church, Detroit, Michigan from 1958 to 1986, and later Hope Lutheran Church, Warren, Michigan from 1986 to the present. Through outreach, service projects, and fellowship, they built deep friendships and lived out their devotion to Jesus Christ. In the 1990s, Pat and Nick attended the Via de Cristo retreat, which strengthened their faith and deepened their spiritual journey together. Above all, Pat loved her family and friends. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Her greatest joy came from preparing for the next gathering, celebration, or family activity. She lived life fully-loving freely, giving generously, and leading with joy. She taught those around her how to live with love, simplicity, and gratitude. Pat passed peacefully, quietly taking her last breath in the middle of the night with family close by her side. In the days before her passing, she often expressed that she was "ready" and patiently waiting to be reunited with her husband. On, April 10, 2026, she entered the Lord's house and is now resting in eternal peace with her Savior. She will be remembered for her love, her laughter, her creativity, and the joy she brought to every gathering. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished and the many lives she touched. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026, with instate at 10am until the time of the service at 11am at Hope Lutheran Church, 32400 Hoover Road in Warren. Pat will be laid to rest at Resurrection Cemetery immediately following the funeral service at the church. The family asks that any memorial donations in honor of Patricia be made out to Hope Lutheran Church at https://hopewarren.breezechms.com/give/online, or to the wishes of the family.

Patricia A. Vanderhorst

May 29, 1931 - April 10, 2026