Patricia Ruth Kaplan

Patricia Ruth Kaplan, beloved wife, mother, artist and community member, passed away on May 11, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity and dedication. Born on June 7, 1931 in Jackson, Michigan to Kenneth and Evelyn Roe, Pat's life journey was marked by a profound appreciation for art, nature and the bonds of family and friendship.

Patricia earned a Bachelor of Art from Albion College, and a Master of Science in Design from the University of Michigan, going on to teach elementary school art in Trenton, Michigan. Pat's creative spirit found expression in various forms, from watercolors and oils to Chinese brush painting to Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging. She began studying Ikebana in 1986, and her affinity for Ikebana led her to pursue teacher training. She achieved the esteemed rank of 3rd Master in the Ohara School, and she was resident teacher and past president of Lansing Chapter #134 Ikebana International.

Pat was deeply committed to her community. She was a proud friend of Bill W. since 1978, helping many, many people who consider her legendary in this community. As a docent at Potter Park Zoo, she shared her love of nature with visitors of all ages. Her involvement in the Girl Scouts, both as a leader and active member of the council, touched the lives of many young girls, instilling in them values of friendship, leadership and service. She was a member of the Sweet Adelines Water Wonderland Chorus, the Michigan State University Community Club, and was a 20-year member and past president of the East Lansing Woman’s Club.

A woman of boundless curiosity, Pat’s thirst for knowledge and adventure took her across the United States and around the globe alongside her husband of 61 years, Tom. Her quirky wit, open-mindedness and intelligence endeared her to all who knew her, and she was never one to shy away from expressing her opinions.

Pat's presence will be deeply missed. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, especially her daughters, Melissa (Andy Callis) Kaplan, Andrea (Brian) Jones and Laurie Kaplan; her grandchildren, Amber (Chris) Meyers, Alex and Christopher Chiou; her great grandchildren, Chloe and Lily Meyers; her brother-in-law, Donald Kaplan; nephew, Mark Kaplan; and former sons-in-law Fred Engelgau and Andy Chiou. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas A. Kaplan; her parents, Evelyn R. (Bulmer) Roe and Kenneth W. Roe; and her siblings, Kenneth W. Roe, Jr. and Lawrence N. Roe.

The family wishes to express special appreciation to the loving caregivers and staff at The Willows of East Lansing where Pat lived for the past five years.

In honoring Patricia’s life, let us celebrate the legacy of love, laughter and creativity she leaves behind on Thursday, May 23, 2024 from 3:00pm until 7:00pm at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes East Lansing Chapel,1730 East Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Pat's honor may be made to the Potter Park Zoological Society.