Patricia Sue Folk

In Loving Memory of Patricia Sue Folk

Patricia Sue Folk knew her purpose in life, "To be a Grandma!" She embodied this role with a warmth and joy that shown to everyone around her. Born on April 30, 1946, Patricia was the daughter of Ralph and Marian (Meinders) Benell. She enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, lovingly sharing her world with her treasured grandkids. Patricia's heart overflowed with adoration as she spent countless hours with her grandkids, engaged in games, passing down the art of baking Christmas cookies, and creating colorful memories while decorating Easter eggs.

After graduating from Lanark High School with the Class of 1964, Patricia embarked on the journey of life. She dearly loved raising three children, Michael, Theresa, and Jeremy. Her dedication and hard work were the foundation of her family's life, as she tirelessly provided for them and showered them with unconditional love. Her children were the center of her universe, and she celebrated every milestone and achievement they reached.

Patricia's industrious spirit led her to a fulfilling career at Elkay in Lanark, where she served as a machine operator in the sheet metal department for over twenty-five years. Beyond her work, she liked live bands and kickin it up with line-dancing. She nurtured her competitive spirit through bowling, participating in the Mt. Carroll league and forming cherished friendships along the way.

Her kitchen was a place of love and creativity, where she transformed ingredients into delicious works of art. Known for her legendary pecan pies, irresistible cookies, and delectable brownies, Patricia's culinary skills brought happiness to every occasion. She found tranquility in tending to both her bountiful vegetable garden and the vibrant flowers that were in her yard.

Patricia Sue Folk leaves behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of her loved ones. She is survived by her daughter, Theresa (Rich) Geerts of Lanark, her son, Jeremy Folk of Frankfort, Illinois, and her four awesome grandchildren, Jaden and Katelyn Bonnell, Allyn Geerts, and Madeline Folk. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Melissa Bonnell of Eureka, Illinois and her brother, Robert (Patty) Benell of Lanark. She was preceded in death by her son, Michael Bonnell in 2006, four sisters, two brothers, and her loving parents, Ralph and Marian.

A celebration of Patricia's life will be held on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at 1pm at Law Jones Eastland in Lanark. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation from 11am to 1pm, prior to the service. Patricia's final resting place will be the Lanark Cemetery.

In honor of Patricia's spirit of giving, a memorial fund has been established to support causes close to her heart. Patricia Sue Folk's presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, laughter, and warmth will continue to inspire and guide those who had the privilege of knowing her.