Patricia S. Hetzel

Patricia S. Hetzel, 83, of Manchester passed away on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Baystate Medical Center. Patricia was born in Baltimore, Maryland. She was the daughter of the late Carl J. Sommers and Helen (Orlowski) Sommers. She is survived by her daughter Sara (Hetzel) DeForge and her husband Colin; her brother Charles Sommers; her sister-in-law Joan Sommers; nieces and nephews and their extended families. She is predeceased by her husband of 54 years Robert, her son Alexander, her brother James, and her sister Judith. Patricia graduated from Manchester High School in 1960. While raising two children, she made a career in holistic nutrition and homeopathic medicine. Pat went back to school and graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1996 with her bachelor's degree. When Bob and Pat moved to Manchester in 1967, they bought their forever home and developed an organic self-sustaining garden. Pat was a wonder with canning - making jams, jellies, sauces, relish, and vegetables that her family enjoyed year-round. She volunteered with Bob "walking the trails" - picking up litter, repairing damaged benches, and planting tulips. Pat and Bob are lifetime members of the Manchester Historical Society where Pat held a position on the Board of Directors. Patricia's passion was her family and nutrition. Even on "pizza Friday" you would find a plate of cut-up veggies to crunch. Patricia had a heart of gold and is dearly missed by those who knew her love, caring, and kindness. "Let me know when you get home safe." A special thank you to Anne and Kenan Danaher - your generosity of love, kindness, time, and energy made Robert's and Patricia's final years here with us happier. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in Pat's name to The Sierra Club or The World Wildlife Fund. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025 from 11-1:00 p.m. at Holmes Watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main Street Manchester CT 06040. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Patricia, please visit our floral store.