Patricia Ann Ponkey

Born on January 22, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, Patricia was the daughter of the late Raymond and Jean (MacMaster) Grunalt. She grew up with a strong sense of family and faith—values that shaped her life and legacy.

Patricia and Norm began their 65 year marriage in a moment of serendipity: While out with friends, Norm spotted her in the car next to his and, compelled to see her again, interacted with her to ask her out. They married on April 30, 1960, and built a beautiful life together, filled with love and laughter.

She was the proud mother of four children: Raymond (Cheryl) Ponkey, Renee (Patrick) Maas, Rochele (Al) Lesperance, and Ronald (Elizabeth) Ponkey. Patricia poured her heart into raising her children and making a happy home for her family. She also shared her love of learning and kindness as a preschool and catechism teacher, always finding joy in working with young minds.

Patricia adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; she cherished every moment spent with each of them, celebrating their accomplishments, encouraging their dreams, and showering them with unconditional love: Jessica (Jason), Sabrina (Tony), Lindsay (Matt), April (Danny), Mandy (William), Alphonse (Caitlin), and Jake—Vayda, Azaileah, Ciro, and Wyatt.

Some of Patricia’s most treasured memories included traveling with Norm to England, Ireland, and the South of France, as well as sunny escapes to Hawaii and the Bahamas.

Patricia was a lifelong Detroit Tigers fan, and watched each game enthusiastically with her family. She also had a creative soul, spending countless hours doing arts and crafts with her kids and grandkids, always encouraging imagination and expression.

Patricia is preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Jean Grunalt, and her brother, Joseph Grunalt.

Smart, fun-loving, and deeply caring, Patricia will be remembered for the warmth she felt for her family. Her children remember her not only as a loving mother, but as a teacher and friend.

A Funeral Mass will take place at 10:30 am on Monday, October 6, 2025, at St. Edith Catholic Church, 15089 Newburgh Road, Livonia, Michigan 48154. Patricia's family will receive visitors on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at the Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152, from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm, with a Rosary Service at 7:00 pm. Visiting will continue at Church on Monday from 10:00 am until the time of the mass at 10:30 am. A private burial will take place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. For donations in lieu of flowers, please send to Serenity Hospice Care: 33620 Five Mile Road, Livonia, MI 48154.