Patricia Gilbert

Patricia J. "Pat" Gilbert, 58, of Tecumseh, unexpectedly passed away on Sunday, September 4, 2005 working in the yard she loved of the home she adored. She was born on December 6, 1946 in rural Woodbine, the daughter of George L. and Sophia Sader Riffel. She was baptized and confirmed at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Shady Brook, KS. Pat attended Woodbine Grade School, Hope High School, and graduated from Chapman High School. She then went on to graduate from Vernon's School of Cosmetology in Wichita, KS and continued to maintain her licensure in this field. Pat was a former employee of Lower Heating and Air for 14 years. A very talented decorator, she spent her most recent years creating a beautiful, warm, and inviting home that she loved to share with friends and family. Particularly noted for her extravagant holiday decorations, Pat worked tirelessly with Gary, her husband, to create a festive environment at Woodlawn Farms, ensuring that a good time was had by all. Pat's love of Longaberger baskets was surpassed only by her love of the sport of golf. She was a member of the Topeka Country Club and was serving as the current president of the Women's Golf Association. In accordance with Pat's zest for life and perpetual energy, she participated in many civic and philanthropic organizations throughout the community. She married Joseph Gambone in 1967, and they later divorced. Pat married Gary D. Gilbert on October 21, 1993 at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He survives. Other survivors include three step-daughters, Darcy D. Kraus and Robin R. Gilbert of Topeka, KS, Penny M. Gilbert of Wichita, KS, one step-grandson, Connor Kraus, Topeka, KS; and, Casey Lynn Waddell and Courtney D. Waddell, Wichita, KS, whom she loved like grandchildren. She is also survived by one brother, Eugene Riffel of Woodbine, KS, three sisters, Carol Troisi of Milford, DE, Janis Bell of Wichita, KS, and Rose Beneke of Winchester, VA. In addition, Pat is survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, whom she considered her "children:" Paula Acheson, Marc Riffel, Marcia Riffel Munsell, Kelly Bell, Robyn Schmidt, Gail Reeser, Nancy Klima, Brenda Meyer, Terry Beneke, Brian Beneke, nineteen great nieces and nephews, and one great-great niece. Pat was also well-known for her love and devotion to her furry children: dog, Taylor, and cats, Tommy and Callie, all who continue to run free at the farm. Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the First Baptist Church, 3033 SW MacVicar, Topeka, KS. Following the services, the family will receive friends at Topeka Country Club, 2700 SW Buchanan, Topeka, KS from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. for a luncheon buffet. Graveside committal services will be held at 4:00 p.m. Thursday in Woodbine, KS at the Woodbine Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to the Pat Gilbert Memorial Fund c/o Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel, 1321 S.W. 10th Ave., Topeka, KS 66604. A special message may be given to the family online at www.PenwellGabel.com.