Patricia "Pat" Gural

Patricia Gural, 79, of Holland, passed away in the presence of her family on October 24, 2024.
She was born on September 24, 1945, in River Rouge, Michigan to parents Anna (Sampuda) and William Kostelnik. She had an infectious joy that touched all who knew her.
In 1963, Pat met Ron Gural at a college mixer and their love quickly blossomed. Three years later, they vowed to share their lives, embarking on a loving and dedicated 52-year journey together. With Ron by her side, Pat built a life rich in love as she raised their four children Kim, Kathy, Jeff and Janet. They eventually settled in Holland, MI where they embraced the community's Dutch culture and natural beauty. Some of their happiest moments were spent at the state park, watching sailboats and sunsets eating KFC.
As a mother-in-law, she embraced her expanding family with a warmth that made everyone feel at home. As a grandmother, she loved to spend time with her grandkids. Grandma was always up for a game or a puzzle or watching a movie. And her creative spirit flourished in the crafts and activities she shared with them.
Pat's love was as much about giving as it was about receiving. She had an extraordinary gift for creating beauty, not just in her relationships but in the world around her. An avid gardener, Pat cultivated flowers and plants with the same care she gave to her family. Her green thumb earned her the title of Master Gardener, and her talent was recognized through her involvement with the Holland Garden Club and numerous awards in the Tulip Time Flower Show. Pat's passion for life was also reflected in her home, where every change of season brought a change of decorations from pumpkins to Santas to watermelons.
Pat was a devoted Christian whose faith shone brightly as a cherished member of Our Lady of the Lake Church. She embraced her role as a greeter, where her warm spirit made everyone feel welcome. Actively involved in various committees, she viewed the church as a place of service, where her kindness not only uplifted others but also fostered lasting friendships. Her commitment to her community was a testament to her deep faith and loving heart.
To know Pat was to know kindness, generosity, and grace. Her laughter, her warmth, and her unwavering support shaped the lives of those fortunate enough to call her friend, wife, mother, grandmother or great grandmother. Her presence will be missed deeply, but the love she shared and the beauty she created will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her.
Pat is survived by her four children, Kim (Scott) Bonzheim of Clarkston, MI, Kathy Gural of Beaverton, OR, Jeff Gural of West Olive, MI and Janet (Ben) LaBarge of West Olive, MI. She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Christian, Joshua (Madeline), Brendan, Collin, Dugan, Daphne (Jesus), Liam and great-granddaughter, Leila.
The family will receive visitors on Tuesday, October 29, from 10:00am to 11:00am, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 480 152nd Avenue, Holland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held following visitation at 11:00am. Father Michael Burt will preside over the mass. Interment will be in Lakewood Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.