Patricia Catherine Ditch

Patricia Catherine Ditch, affectionately known as "Patti &/or Patti Cakes," left our arms and took Jesus's hand on May 13, 2025. Eternally 29. She will be lovingly remembered and celebrated by all those who knew her.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 21, from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. at Memorial Services of Iowa (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny, IA). Funeral services will follow at 12:30 p.m. at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church; (1102 NW Weigel Drive, Ankeny, IA), with a luncheon to follow. In true Patti fashion, she wanted her life to be celebrated. For those who would like to share stories and raise a toast to her, you are welcome to join the family after lunch at The Cork; (6205 Merle Hay Road, Johnston, IA 50131).

Patti is preceded in death by her parents, Deloris and Lawrence Greiner, her brother, George, and her beloved husband, Leonard Ditch. She is survived by her four daughters and eleven grandchildren, Kristin (Jerry) and their children, Gabe and Abby; Karri (John) and their children, Ella and Carson; Traci and her children, Madalyn, Luke, Jake, and Brady; Tricia (Leif) and their children, Sophia, Kolton and Kai; four siblings, MaryAnne Greene (DeWitt), Don Greiner (Independence), Rick Griener (Independence), and Nancy Wilfong (Ely).

A devoted Catholic, Patti was an active member of Sacred Heart Church in Maquoketa, Iowa. She joined the rosary group in 1978 and shared her gift of song by participating in the church choir for many years. Additionally, she tirelessly volunteered her time and talents contributing in many ways; tutoring, assisting with funeral dinners, decorating, and organizing church activities. Patti was part of a sewing group where she joyfully crafted dresses for girls in Haiti, bunted blankets for babies, and made quilts for young mothers. After moving to Ankeny in 2021, she continued her faith at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church. There, she made the most beautiful friendships and was quick to join the "Prime Timers"- a group so active, her calendar begged for a nap. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life.

Patti was the second born of six children and was loved by all her siblings. She was born and raised in Independence, Iowa. After graduating from St. John's, she attended Mount Mercy College, where she earned her bachelor's degree in education. During this time, she spent a semester abroad in Anesmourg, Luxembourg. Her love for learning and children ultimately led her to her teaching 3rd grade at Sacred Heart School in Maquoketa for 30 years where she profoundly impacted hundreds of children before retiring.

In 1972, Patti married Leonard Ditch. Together, their love blossomed through shared passions like ballroom dancing, snowmobiling, boating, and playing Euchre with friends. Their greatest blessings were their four daughters. Nana's grandchildren were the loves of her life, and she spent much of her retirement joyfully with them. Her biggest smiles came from days spent at the ball diamonds, football fields, and basketball courts. Snuggle time was always the best time, sandwiched in between board games, cards, reading storybooks, and coloring.

Her creativity was expressed beautifully in painting nativity scenes, sewing, tending to yard work and flowers, cleaning and organization. There was never a window in her house that was not spotless, a testament to her dedication and care. Patti loved her walks, and ended each day with a cozy Hallmark romcom, reading, doing a crossword puzzle, or playing Words with Friends. She was always the first to welcome someone new and made it her life's mission to make sure no one felt left out. She was a friend to everyone, a shoulder to lean on, a hand to hold, a smile to share. Those exact values were reciprocated in her "Circle 28" friendships. You know who you are. Friendships like that don't just happen, they are formed through Christ for a purpose.

The family extends special thanks to the dear friends from Circle 28, PrimeTimers, caregivers at Taylor House, and all of her dear family and friends who supported and loved her over the years. Patti's legacy of offering love, grace, and service will forever be cherished. Her life was a beautiful reflection of her deep-rooted faith and boundless generosity, inspiring all who knew her to live with purpose and love one another as Jesus taught us. Her heart was pure and bright. She touched the lives of everyone who met her, leaving an undeniable mark of kindness and compassion. Her selfless nature and unwavering faith were evident in all her actions. Patti- Heaven here on Earth.

In lieu of flowers, a donation with be made in Patti's name by the family at a later date.