Col. Patricia A. Lane, 86, of Topeka, passed away on Thursday, November 9, 2017.
She was born on January 11, 1931 in Shreveport, LA to Harry "Mac" McKean and Marjorie (Johnson) McKean. She grew up in Topeka, KS and graduated from Topeka High School in 1949 and went on to attend Washburn University.
She married Don Rowlinson in 1950. They later divorced. From this marriage they had two children, Daniel and Diana.
Patricia married Gary L. Lane on December 21, 1963 in Topeka, KS. He survives. Other survivors include daughters, Rebecca (James) Struthers, Diana Cribbs-Rowlinson, Carmen (Lane) Boulton, Julie (Lane) Cummings, and husband Leo, and Tracy (Lane) Boyd; sons Daniel (Jimmette) Rowlinson, and Terry (Debra) Lane; a sister, Marilyn "Susie" Goosby; as well as numerous other extended family members.
She was a pilot for over 50 years, and a member of the Civil Air Patrol for 40+ years. She was the unit commander of the local Civil Air Patrol Unit for many years, and went on to become the Kansas Wing Commander. She also holds a Bronze Medal of Valor.
A celebration of Patricia's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 15, 2017 at the Combat Air Museum, 7016 SE Forbes Avenue.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Helping Hands Humane Society.
Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel is assisting the family.
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