Patricia A. Dvorak

Patricia A. Dvorak, 80, of East Peoria passed away at her home on Sunday, December 17, 2023, and has gone to Heaven to be with her Savior Jesus. She was born in Princeville on October 23, 1943, to Thomas and Helen (Reed) King. She married her husband of 58 years, David A. Dvorak at the First United Methodist Church in East Peoria, on November 26, 1964; he preceded her in death on October 21, 2023. Their lasting marriage showcased the necessity for commitment in tandem with their love. She was also preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Dr. W.J. Culley. She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Trischa (Curt Hogland) Lanum of Spokane, WA, Ericka Dvorak of East Peoria, Nathan (Crystal) Dvorak of Auburn, IL, Adam Dvorak of Bartonville, Maria (Jason) Olvera of Greenville, MI, and Merideth Dvorak of East Peoria; 2 foster children, Jeffrey and Christie; 13 grandchildren, Jacob (Etta), Emily, Katie, Matthew, Leilani, Amira, Shauna, Trinity, Cash, Kayson, Luciana, Micah, and Bella; 3 great-grandchildren, Royal, Charlotte, and Xander; and her beloved dogs, Holly and Josie. Patricia graduated from EPCHS Class of 1961, then earned her degree in special education from Illinois State University. She worked as a Child Development Specialist at PARC, now known as EP!C in Peoria. Her daughters followed her example in the field of special education. Patty loved God and her family. She was a member of Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church in East Peoria. She and David were involved in foster care and adoption for children with special needs and sponsored a Hmong family from a Laotian refugee camp after the Vietnam War. She had a heart for the disenfranchised and sought ways to actively promote success and connectedness in her civic outreach. In her later years, she loved her social connection with the 61 girls. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church in East Peoria. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Pastor Paul Hinzman will officiate. Private burial will be at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield. Memorial contributions may be made to the Women’s Pregnancy Center or Teen Challenge. Online condolences may be left at www.GaryDeitersFH.com.

Patricia A. Dvorak

October 23, 1943 - December 17, 2023