Patricia A. Gatens
WOODLAND PARK - Patricia A. Gatens, 80, surrounded by her family, and most importantly her loving grandchildren, passed away on February 22, 2024. Beloved wife of 46 years to James who predeceased her in 2016, mother of Brian, Joseph (d. 1977), and Thomas (d. 1978), mother-in-law of Kathleen, grandmother to James, Margaret and John, “American Mom” to Nuala and Paul Heron, and an aunt, cousin, and friend to many. A native of the Bronx, New York, and resident of Blauvelt, NY, Spring Lake, NJ, and Woodland Park, NJ, Patricia earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1984 and worked as a nurse at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. In 1994, Pat and Jim purchased and managed the Spring Lake Inn of Spring Lake, NJ. In 2002, they moved to Woodland Park, NJ to keep close tabs on their grandchildren and their many activities. In March 2020, she made her final move to Bristal Assisted Living in Waldwick, NJ. The staff and fellow residents of the Bristal became a second family for her and everyone found great joy in her friendship, caring, and honest opinions. Her wry Irish humor, love of a good story, and pride in her family came through in every conversation. Many a baby has been swaddled in a homemade afghan that she would crochet especially for them and many a family function was made better by her Irish Soda Bread. Patricia knew the value of hard work, family and friendship and no one could ask for a more loyal and dedicated person to have on their side. The family will receive guests at the Feeney Funeral Home in Ridgewood from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, February 27th. A Mass will be held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel R.C. Church in Ridgewood at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 28th, followed by interment at Rockland Cemetery in Sparkill, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Encore Community Services, 239 W. 49th St., New York, NY 10019 - https://www.encorenyc.org/