Patricia Sullivan Korest

Patricia Sullivan Korest. Born May 22, 1930, peacefully passed away on September 21, 2023. She is survived by her children, Rick, Jane, Phil (Jane) and Andrew (Chris), as well as her grandchildren, Emilia (Ted), Rachel (Harry), David, Emily, and Molly; nieces, Patty and Sara; and a nephew, Jim. Pat is preceded in death by her parents, Maxine and Ralph Sullivan; sister, Suzanne Sullivan Sumner (James), and son-in-law, Loukas.

Pat spent most of her life in Battle Creek where she graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1948. She pursued her education at Middlebury College in Vermont and Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, graduating with a degree in Education in 1952. Later in life, she continued her education at Western Michigan University receiving two master’s degrees in interior design and art education.

Pat’s life was marked by her commitment to her church and local community organizations. She sang in the First Congregational Church of Battle Creek choir and volunteered for many church projects including aiding the resettlement of Burmese refugees and organizing religious art exhibitions. Pat was an active member of PEO for 70 years, carrying on a family tradition of supporting women’s pursuit of higher education.

Art was Pat’s lifelong passion, cultivated from her high school days when she sketched maps for history or things she saw under the microscope. She pursued her love for painting when her children were young, taking classes at the art center and attending workshops by renowned artists. Watercolor and pastels were her preferred mediums, and her artwork graced local galleries, restaurants, art shows, and community centers, leaving a lasting legacy now cherished by her family and friends.

Pat was an influential figure in the local art scene, participating in organizations such as the Battle Creek Society of Artists and the Southwest Michigan Watercolor Society. She collaborated with fellow artists to establish a cooperative art gallery in downtown Battle Creek, promoting the work of local artisans. In her later years, she played a pivotal role in founding an art studio at Northpointe Woods, providing a creative outlet for resident artists.

Beyond her artistic pursuits, Pat enjoyed playing Bridge, tennis, knitting, solving crossword puzzles and visiting with friends – many of them she had since childhood.

Pat’s greatest love was her family. Raising her kids on Gull Lake, she was a devoted mom and grandmother. Always willing to drop anything to talk or visit with family, Pat showed her kids unwavering support and unconditional love. Family summer vacations at a northern Michigan cottage were her favorite, where she painted by the beach during the day and relished late-night dinners followed by spirited card games.

A service to celebrate Pat’s life will be held on November 25, 2023 at 11:00am with a reception to follow at Battle Creek First Congregational Church. All those who loved Pat are welcome. Family expresses gratitude to Corsocare Hospice and TenderHearts for the love and devotion during Pat’s final days.