Patricia ‘Pat‘ Herbst, 64

A life beautifully lived: Patricia “Pat” Herbst (Jan. 8, 1961-April 8, 2025)
It is with profound sorrow and a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of Patricia “Pat” Herbst, a woman whose radiant spirit, unwavering devotion to her family, and impeccable style touched the lives of all who knew her. Pat departed this world peacefully on April 8, 2025, in Woodstock, surrounded by her loving family, a testament to the immense love she cultivated throughout her life.

Born on Jan. 8, 1961, in Kalamazoo, Mich., Pat was the cherished daughter of John and Marilyn Lierman. From her earliest days, she possessed a vibrant energy and a remarkable ability to connect with others. As one of six siblings, she was an integral part of a close-knit and uniquely bonded family that extended far beyond her immediate household. The annual gatherings of this expansive family, numbering over 40, were a testament to the love and joy they shared, filled with laughter, the recounting of cherished memories, and spirited games of Left Right Center. These moments were a cornerstone of Pat’s life and a source of immense happiness. She was a beloved sister to Denise Eesley (Michael Eesley), John Lierman (Sue Lierman), Julie Thompson (Mark Thompson), Karen Howes (Bruce Howes), and Susie Caswell (DJ Caswell), forming bonds that would last a lifetime.

Pat graduated with a degree in business administration from Grand Valley State University, a testament to her intelligence and drive. Her professional journey included roles at esteemed organizations such as Johnson & Johnson, Russell Stover, Legacy Custom Homes, and volunteer coordinator at Northwestern Medicine, where her dedication and personable nature shone.

However, Pat’s true calling and greatest joy lay in her role as a devoted mother to her twin daughters, Lydia and Alayna, and her son, Kevin. She navigated the complexities of parenthood with extraordinary strength and unwavering commitment, becoming the consistent and guiding force in her children’s lives. Through her tireless efforts and boundless love, she ensured they were nurtured, supported, and equipped for every opportunity, embodying the essence of both mother and father with grace and resilience. Her children were the absolute center of her universe, and her pride in them knew no bounds.

Pat possessed a rare gift for making people laugh. Her quick wit, often delivered with a perfectly timed touch of sarcasm, had the uncanny ability to lighten any situation and bring smiles to countless faces. She had a way of saying what everyone else was thinking, often with a humorous twist that made her truly unforgettable.

Beyond her immediate family, Pat was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, and a loyal friend. She cherished family traditions, from over 25 years of cherished summer holidays at Hessel and then Spider Lake, filled with laughter and togetherness, to the bustling joy of annual Christmas gatherings and the treasured tradition of a girls’ shopping weekend spanning many years. These moments, spent surrounded by loved ones, were the fabric of her happiest memories.

Pat was a woman of deep and abiding Catholic faith, which provided her with strength and solace throughout her life. She also found profound happiness in her loving relationship with her significant other, Kevin Kirwan., who was the love of her life.

Always impeccably dressed and possessing an innate sense of style, Pat was a woman of grace and elegance. Her positive outlook and beautiful spirit radiated from within, earning her the well-deserved title of “classy woman” in the eyes of all who knew her. She was a fun-loving warrior, navigating life with strength and resilience, particularly as the primary caretaker who embraced the weight of providing a stable and loving home for her children.

Pat’s generous heart extended beyond her family. She was a dedicated volunteer coordinator who loved her volunteers and embraced the importance of tradition. Her thoughtfulness and willingness to always put others first left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

Pat’s absence will be deeply felt by her beloved children, Lydia, Alayna, and Kevin; her devoted partner, Kevin Kirwan.; her dear siblings, Denise (Michael), John (Sue), Julie (Mark), Karen, and Susie (DJ); and her cherished extended family of over 40, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and loyal friends. Pat was preceded in death by her parents and by her brother-in-law, Bruce Howes.

Visitation was on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 4 to 8 p.m. at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley A funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 1 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 312 Lincoln Ave. Woodstock.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Pat’s memory to the Herbst Children – everloved.com/life-of/patricia-herbst/donate/