Patricia Joy Garcia (Begue), 56, passed away on August 6, 2021, in Indianapolis, Indiana. She was born on June 17, 1965, in Columbia City to Ronald and Juanita Begue (Dignan). Patricia lived most of her life in Whitley County—graduating from Columbia City Joint High School in 1983 and working as the Deputy Clerk for the Town of South Whitley.
Patricia was married to Robert Garcia on July 3, 2003, and spent the rest of her life happily at his side (unless he was watching soccer). Patricia was also an attentive mother to three children, Katie, Matthew, and Lauren, who were her greatest joy and also the reason she cussed a little. Patricia was the center of her family's world, and while her life on Earth was far too brief, she will forever be the love of her husband's life, the guiding force for her children, and a happy memory for her grandchildren.
Patricia had a way of leaving an indelible impact on everyone's heart and was the kind of person you wanted for a best friend. She was witty, warm, and an instinctive nurturer. She was everyone's confidante, advisor, and sounding board. She was tough but respected. She seemed to always know everyone and everything—like how to bake the perfect cookie, the ideal creative touch to make any project or event stand out, how to remove a nail polish stain from the carpet, the reason your car was making a clunking sound, or the answer to any given question on topics ranging from business finance to property taxes to the goings on in the world. She could feed an army even with everyone crowding around her in the kitchen because she was both the hostess and the life of the party. She organized festivals, taught basket-weaving, always knew the lineup for Houston Astros games, and let her competitive streak shine as she dominated opponents in trivia and board games. She embodied love and goodness and is missed deeply.
Patricia is survived by her loving husband, Bob; her children, Katie (Mark) Haire, Matthew (Sam) Strandlund, and Lauren Strandlund; her grandchildren, Samuel Haire and Markie Haire; her father, Ronald (Charlene) Begue Sr.; her siblings, Ronald (Barb) Begue Jr., Suzette Begue, Deborah (David) Herendeen, and Stephen Begue; as well as several nieces and nephews, a great-niece, and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother.
A private service will be held for family and friends.