I have known Patti since September 1994 when I became a NOAA aviator. To say I valued her presence and opinion is an understatement. Patti has been one of the most important leaders at NOAA AOC. We have always bonded over our mutual love of animals. 

My deepest sympathies go out to her daughters-who she never failed to bring up in daily conversation with Proud Momma flair. And I am sorry for all of the past and present AOC folks-Patti is irreplaceable. We should feel honored to have shared time with her.

Saddened to hear the news of Patty passing.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family,  Alexandria and Rebecca in particular.  Patty 's Christmas cards with the family photos were the best!  I first met Patty in 1989 at AOC and a stop in her office for a sanity check was always a good idea.  Working for Flight OPS and flying with Tom Gates......I often had to check in with Patty!  Her passion for hockey and her beloved Tampa Bay Lighting was awesome.  We will all miss you Patty.

Warm Regards......Gregg & Kerstin LaMontagne

Although Patti left us way way too soon,  we should be thankful and joyful that, no matter how big or how small, she was a part of our lives.  And may Patti rest in peace in the arms of our Lord and Savior  Jesus Christ.

I met Patty in 1996 when I reported to AOC in Tampa.  I had the pleasure of working with Patty on various projects for the last 24 years.  She was always helpful, kind, and full of patience.  I’ve always appreciated her sense of humor and kind smile - she was just a joy to work with.  She will be deeply missed by many.  I’m so sorry for her loss and my deepest sympathy for her family.

I've been gone from AOC from over 20 years, but I still remember Patty as one of those people that were the heart and soul of the organization, and made working there so much easier and more pleasant.  The world needs more people like Patty; she made it a better place just by being in it, and while my heartfelt condolences go out to her family whose grief must be immeasurable, her loss is a loss for all of us.

My first day at NOAA Aircraft Operations Center (AOC) (in Miami at the time) was also Patty’s first day - in July 1986. We met in the elevator, assuming the other was a long-time AOC veteran. We became fast friends, as she was the administrative assistant for our division - aircraft operations - which consisted of approximately 20 male aviators and Patty. Our growing families got to know each other and we stayed in touch long after I was transferred. Whenever I traveled to AOC in later years - now in Tampa - she and I always had lunch and caught up on all the gossip - both work and personal. As we dealt with all the changes life dealt us, we couldn’t help but shed a tear or two on behalf of the other one. 
Now upon hearing this horrific news of Patty’s untimely death, I am shedding more than one or two tears. Godspeed Patty!

I only knew Patty for a little over 2 years.   In that time I learned how much she wanted to enjoy everyday of her life.  Her best moments and memories are those she shared with her daughters.  One thing she said that I thought was pretty cool was,  "Edgar I love hanging out with them (her daughters), we are together so much that if only one of them can be with me at the time the other gets jealous".  I replied with "that's awesome that you have such a strong relationship with them".  That is who she was,  a loving mother who just sucked the fun out of life and enjoyed every second of it.  Lourdes and I will miss you for sure. Remember when you called me Enrique for ever!!!! You will be missed girl.  "Go Bolts" .

Patty was a friend that I never met in person. We worked together over the phone for 5 years & she was always helpful & kind. We talked often about her animals & our dogs. I’m sorry she’s gone. It’s way to soon. I hope her family knows how sweet & fun she was. She will be missed. 

Patty was the most giving and caring soul and was the first person I met when going to work for NOAA nearly 30 years ago. She took me and lots of other newbies  under her wing and showed us everything we needed to know to survive  those first awkward years.  She was a devoted mom above all else and it shows in the two wonderful daughters that she and Mike raised.  Patty never shied from telling folks about her babies!    Whatever she got into, she was all in.  That included her sports teams, hobbies and even the people she chose to let into her life. I’m grateful to her for letting me be part of her world!  

ASPCA

Visitation

She is preceded in death by her mother, Virginia Lazzeri; dogs, Snoopy and Boots.
Patricia is survived by daughter, Alexandria Merek and Rebecca Merek; brother, Jeff Lazzeri, Jr; father, Jeff Lazzeri; ex-husband, Mike Merek; niece, Chanel St. Germain.

OBITUARY

Patricia Ann Merek

18 July, 1965 – 28 November, 2019

Blount & Curry Life Event Center

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