Patricia "Patty" Cekuta

Patricia Cekuta, beloved mother of six, passed away on August 9, 2025, in Fernandina Beach, Florida.

She was born in Rochester, New York on September 27, 1940, where she lived most of her 84 years. Here, she grew up with a strong sense of family and an appreciation for life. As an avid gardener with a green thumb, She loved tending her plants and homegrown vegetables. She held close to her heart the early memories of summers spent swimming in the backyard pool, and later in life, cherished trips to the lake house where seemingly endless games of euchre brought everyone together.

She was the kind of mom her children's friends always wanted to be around, earning the role of "second mom" to many who loved spending time at her home.

From a very young age, she was a promising and versatile artist. In high school, she was recognized with an art scholarship. She sewed and crafted beautiful handmade gifts, including Christmas stockings, quilts, and clothes. She also enjoyed painting furniture and selling it at craft shows. Beyond that, she was an award-winning artist, with her pieces displayed at the Brighton Public Library. She left her family many sentimental pieces of her art.

After she retired from her career at Ibero American Investors, she shared her love of art by teaching Sumi painting to various organizations.

Her intelligence and quick wit were matched with her dry sense of humor. Never shy about her opinion, she was selective with her friendships, but once you were in her circle, she was fiercely loyal and supportive.

She was a baker at heart but had a myriad of other creative dishes. She delighted in cooking for others. Family and friends often requested her specialties-Kourabiedes cookies, zucchini pancakes, kimchi, and her unforgettable potato salad.

She also found peace in simple pleasures, like sitting on the porch of her beloved home, watching the deer, rabbits, and birds that frequented her yard.

She was predeceased by her parents, Mary Helen and Thomas Cekuta; her sister, Marlene LaRock; her brother, Albert Cekuta; and cherished dog, Vegas.

She is survived by her six children: Thomas Stefanini (Linda), Douglas Stefanini (Sisi), Tim Stefanini, Maureen Stefanini, Vicki Stefanini, and Nicole Kazek (David); her sister, Lori Toppi (Tobi); seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and the many friends who loved her dearly.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Patricia's life on Saturday, September 27th from 11 AM to 2 PM at 7 Winslow Ave, Rochester, NY 14620. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to V for Victory at www.vforvictory.org.