Patricia Anne Chrest

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Patricia Anne Chrest on September 9, 2025, in Oswego, Illinois, at the age of 80. Born on June 26th, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, Patricia was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who touched the lives of many with her warmth, creativity, and unwavering faith. Patricia was the daughter of Everett and Harriet (Injerd) Osborn. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband David Chrest, her grandson, Ethan Glass, her great-grandson Leeland Samuel Gunn Lerner, and her brother, Robert Osborn. She is survived by her loving children: son David (Nancy) Chrest, daughters Michelle (Vince) Henderson, Melissa (Matthew) West, Marie (Steve) Gunn; her cherished grandchildren, including Jessica (James Holloway) Henderson, David Eric (Ilona) Chrest, Amber (Stewart) DeWaard, Cameron Chrest, Kaitlyn Henderson, Nicholas Henderson, Emily (Mark) Zinta, Melissa (Zac Lerner) Soucie, Joseph Soucie, William Gunn and Cole West; as well as her great-grandchildren, Ashlyn DeWaard, Alexander DeWaard, and Izabella Lerner. Patricia is also survived by her sister Marilyn Knoll, and brother, Paul Osborn.
Growing up in the Roseland Neighborhood of Chicago, she attended the Roseland Mission Church where she met her future husband and love of her life, David Charles Chrest. They were married at the Roseland Mission Church on May 2, 1964. Soon after, they settled into the South Suburbs of Chicago where they raised their children in a loving and supportive home surrounded by extended family.
A talented artist from her youth, Patricia honed her skills as an artist during her high school years, winning a scholarship to the Art Institue of Chicago. Although she was unable to attend art school, she continued to pursue art by painting, teaching ceramics and then teaching herself to hand sculpt stoneware and porcelain figurines. She, along with husband Dave, toured the country selling her artwork in many Renaissance Faires and juried art shows. She had a special love for dogs and had many doggie friends throughout her life. They were her constant companions and loved to travel with them. After retirement, she returned to painting, gifting many to family to proudly display.
Patricia's strong faith in Jesus was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through both triumphs and challenges. She called herself "a compulsive witness" and loved to share with everyone the many ways in which the Lord had been faithful throughout her life. She was known for her friendly demeanor and ability to make friends wherever she went. Her warmth and cheerful nature allowed her to connect with people of all walks of life. She would often be the center of a crowd as she relays the many miracles she had witnessed in her life. Patricia Anne Chrest will be remembered for her artistic talent, her enduring faith, her loving spirit and her profound impact on those around her. In our hearts, she will continue to inspire us to celebrate life, embrace creativity, and cherish our connections with one another.
A visitation will be held on September 25, 2025, from 2:00 PM until a funeral service at 6:00 PM at DUNN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 1801 S. Douglas Road, Oswego, IL 60543.
Burial with her husband, Dave Chrest, at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 26th at Mt. Vernon Memorial Estates in Lemont, IL.
For information: 630-554-3888 or www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com