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Patti Diane Thompson

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Cleveland State University

Patti Thompson Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 14, 2024.

Patti Thompson [nee Spott, Collins, Means] was born in Chicago, IL, April 6, 1948 and died December 31, 2023, in Kennesaw, GA, due to pancreatic cancer, but always considered Cleveland Heights, OH her true home. She was 75. Patti's life was never boring, even towards the end. From being a lifelong feminist, to an interracial marriage in taboo times, to reuniting with her first love and marrying him in her sixties, to finding out she had a bonus brother and sister in her seventies. Patti was probably the most herself and in her element in her mid-life years: Attending First College at Cleveland State University and earning her bachelor's degree in Urban Studies, volunteering for the Cleveland Orchestra, and volunteering for The Democratic Socialists of America. Patti had a friendly open face and a smile for everyone in general, but if she felt that you were wrong, grievously wrong, she was a fireball who would not back down.

She is survived by her husband Jackie Thompson; children: Robin Castro (Antonio), Wendy Means and Hollie Means; siblings: David Spott, Marietta Spott Cowan, Cathleen Collins, and Terry Leigh Collins (Leonard;) grandchildren: Bryan Geraci (Samantha,) Madalaine Brannum (Timmothy,) Jaden Means, Alex Kravochuck and Evan Beaman; and great-grandchildren: Sebastian Brannum, Sicily Brannum, and Jack Geraci. Special thanks and acknowledgement to Dr. Janice Tandler, long-time family friend who dropped everything to attend to Patti when she and the family were in need.

There will be a Celebration of Life Service via Zoom on January 28, 2024 @ 3pm EST. If you would like to attend virtually please send an email to [email protected] by January 27 letting us know and we will reply back with the Zoom link.

Following in her example of donating her body to science and regular financial support of progressive causes, in lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (pancan.org) and/or your preferred left-wing candidates in the upcoming election year.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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Recent Activity

February 9, 2024

Paul Riley posted to the memorial.

January 28, 2024

Elena Karlak posted to the memorial.

January 15, 2024

Robin Castro posted to the memorial.

19 Entries

Paul Riley

February 9, 2024

Patti was a special person with a great sense of adventure and an infectious smile. I was lucky enough to spend a few years in her orbit; meeting her at CSU then following her recommendation to be a server at the Mad Greek. We even had an extended slumber party when she let me stay with her for a few months between leases.

So many fond memories... debating ideas from Norm Krumholz and Walter Leedy lectures, laughing at her impressions of others (Loki was spot-on), and more importantly seeing the strength of her character in spite of setbacks.

So glad to see she found love again in her final chapter. All my best to her family, especially Hollie and Wendy.

Elena Karlak

January 28, 2024

I first met Patti at the Mad Greek Restaurant, Cleveland Hts. Her section was always, "up front", mine was "corral". The stories and impressions last to this day with all former employees. Great and interesting times.
Patti had an endearing laugh and smile. She was super smart and had a clever sense of humor. A legacy that she knew she passed down to her daughters.
She and i road tripped to Chicago. She knew the What Where and How. She knew all the neighborhoods and also what was up and coming. One time we went to Devon street (Little India) to get our brows threaded and look at beautiful fabrics.
Patti knew the importance of health care and proper medical attention. As i say, when she reunited with Jackie, she turned things around for him. She saved his life.
Patti had unique talents too. "Instep cleaning" (a fast but effective way to straighten the house by shoving things under the bed with your foot).
Drawing in her eyebrows with a "sharpie ".
She showed me how to use a computer after I came home one day saying Patti, Patti what´s a Brazilian??
My salon boss had just asked me to do bikini waxing.
There really isn´t a time when Patti doesn´t come to mind as i drive thru Cleveland hts being reminded of places she lived and talked about.
I love you, Patti. My dad did as well.
Rest now.

Robin Castro

January 15, 2024

Robin Castro

January 15, 2024

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Robin Castro

January 15, 2024

Robin Castro

January 15, 2024

Robin Castro

January 15, 2024

Yetta Cowans

January 15, 2024

Although Patti and I were connected for a short time in our lives, our bond was both instant and genuine. I loved her as if I had known her all of my life. She will forever be in my heart and I was privileged to share time with her. Our goodbye was the most poignant conversation. RIP dearest sister. I will miss you dearly. Your loving sister Yetta (Maryetta)

Wendy Means

January 15, 2024

Wendy Means

January 15, 2024

Wendy Means

January 15, 2024

Robin Castro

January 15, 2024

Robin Castro

January 15, 2024

Robin Castro

January 15, 2024

Robin Castro

January 15, 2024

Robin Castro

January 15, 2024

William LaRue

January 14, 2024

Pattie was not just a long-time friend of mine, SHE WAS FAMILY, and I am crying writing this knowing that we went too long in the last few years without getting in touch. We spent many years at Mad Greek throughout the years as we both would come and go in the employ of the Mad Greek until I eventually owned it after Loki passed away in 2001. She even came to work with me again after taking part in ownership. Hollie and Wendi, know your Mom was and is loved by many and you are part of our family as well. Patti will be missed by many!

Bill Sykes

January 14, 2024

Patti was a neighbor of mine in Northfield, Ohio and was a close friend of my wife Bonnie and my sister Barb. She will be missed.

Teresa Rodriguez

January 14, 2024

The precious times I had with her and Jackie and Robin´s table. We would sit late into the night and talk about everything. I will treasure those memories.

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