Patricia Ann Leksich, 72, Bradenton, Fla., passed away on Dec. 9, 2022, in the presence of family.

Patricia Ann Leksich

Pat and Greg were residents of Syracuse for 20 years and the founders of Pat’s Chicago Dogs.

She was born in Vallejo, Calif., on Feb. 1, 1950, to Anna and Clarence Geisler, who preceded her in death, along with her sister, Peggy Braa; and daughter, Kimberly Harvey-Abela. We mourn the loss of our loved one while rejoicing in the knowledge that she is now home in heaven.

Pat leaves behind her husband of 53 years, Greg Leksich; her daughter, Susanne Rippey, with children, Bethany Wesley and Caleb Rippey; son, Joe Leksich, with children, Keaton and Makenzie, who reside in Indiana; Kimberly’s children, Andrew, Nick and Megan Harvey, who reside in Michigan; her sister, Laura Bara; and brother, John Geisler.

The most beautiful accomplishment of Pat’s life was the 53 years of marriage she shared with Greg. Their love for each other was evident in their daily loving acts of care for each other. Holding hands and playful banter started from day one and lasted until the end. They built a beautiful life based in faith while loving each other in heart and soul.

A memorial service for Pat will be held Saturday, May 13, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1502 E. Wallen Road, Fort Wayne. Family and friends are welcome. Visitation in the main hall will be at 10:30 a.m. and Mass at 11 a.m. A committal service will be at noon at Oratory of St. Mary Magdalene, across the street. A social luncheon will be from 12:15-2 p.m. at Life Center (St. Vincent Campus). Chicago hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches will be served in memory of Pat’s legacy, Pat’s Chicago Dogs.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to A Mother’s Hope Pregnant Women’s Shelter at www.amothershopefw.org.