Patricia Hornstra

Patricia Hornstra (née Grannan)
March 17, 1929 – April 9, 2026

Patricia Hornstra (Grannan) was born on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois, to Earle and Margaret Grannan (both deceased). She was a sister to Mary Jane and Peggy(both deceased). The Lord called her home on April 9, 2026.

She proudly hit the Irish trifecta: born on St. Patrick’s Day, blessed with fiery red hair, and of pure Irish descent. Her parents had little choice but to name her Patricia.

A woman of sharp intellect, Patricia graduated from Mundelein College in Chicago. She married Howard Hornstra nearly 70 years ago, and the two remained devoted lifelong partners until her passing.

Patricia was a loving and dedicated mother to her five children: Margaret (Paul), Paul (Dawn), Brian, Thomas (Tu), and Michael. She was blessed with eight grandchildren—Kate (Mark), Patrick, Emma, Paul, Matthew, Stephanie, Andrew, and Mackenzie—and one great-grandchild, Matilda.

Her Irish charm was legendary, matched only by her equally famous Irish stubbornness. She enjoyed a good Manhattan, loved playing tennis and golf, and brought that same spirited energy to everything she did. A energetic game of Bridge with family or friends was always welcome. Those passions, along with Howard’s, led the couple to retire to Hilton Head Island, where they enjoyed many happy years.

A lifelong and devout Catholic, Patricia rarely missed Sunday Mass, even when traveling for business or pleasure. She made sure all her children attended Immaculate Conception grade school and high school, instilling in them the faith that guided her life. She often volunteered in the children’s school activities and later in life at the Hilton Head museum.

Patricia will be remembered for her intelligence, her warmth, her unwavering faith, and the unmistakable sparkle of her Irish spirit.