Patricia Ann (Renken) Lawfer entered her heavenly home on October 6, 2026. She was born on December 12, 1933 at home in Forest City, Illinois, to Jacob W. and Gladys H. (Smith) Renken. She married I. Ronald Lawfer on October 2, 1955 in Mason City, Illinois, and they celebrated 61 years together before his passing on December 18, 2016.

She graduated from Mason City High School in 1951. She served as President of 4-H House her senior year at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign where she graduated with a degree in Physical Education and Biological Science in 1955.

She and Ron started a dairy operation in 1957 in Kent, Illinois, adjacent to the farm where Ron was born and was proud that her son and his family have continued the family farm. She shared her passion for agriculture by serving on several boards and was District Coordinator for Ag-in-the-Classroom, was President of the Illinois Agri-Women, and chaired various committees for American Agri-Women. She received American Agri-Women’s highest honor, the LEAVEN award which stands for Loyalty, Enthusiasm, Anticipatory, Valiant, Effectiveness, and Nurturing, characteristics she displayed in all areas of her life.

Pat supported her husband during his 10 years as State Representative in the Illinois General Assembly and served as President of Jo Daviess Republican Women.

She was baptized and confirmed at the St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in San Jose, Illinois, and was an active member of Christ Lutheran Church in Stockton, Illinois participating in women’s circle, WELCA, and quilting club.

Her favorite role was cheerleader to her grandchildren in their many endeavors, hosting summer grandma camp, and gathering the family at a moment’s notice with a huge meal and her famous banana cream pie. She delighted in seeing her grandchildren and great-grandchildren in person or through pictures, since they are scattered throughout the country. She had a deep love for animals, leaving her family with many fond memories and stories to share.

She is survived by her five children, daughters Kathy Lawfer of Cooktown, Australia, Karen Lawfer of Juneau, Alaska, Kay Johnson, Watseka, Kristine (David) Griffith, East Peoria, and son Ronald L. (Julie Stiefel) Lawfer of Kent, nine grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Donna Jean (Kenneth) Wagoner of Georgetown, Texas, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and infant brother.

A Celebration of Life will held at Christ Lutheran Church in Stockton, Illinois, on Saturday, November 7 at 2 pm preceded with a visitation starting at noon. Memorials may be made to Christ Lutheran Church. Private burial will be at Wards Grove Cemetery overlooking the family farm.