A Life Beautifully Lived: Patricia "Pat" Herbst (January 8, 1961 - April 8, 2025)
It is with profound sorrow and a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of Patricia "Pat" Herbst, a woman whose radiant spirit, unwavering devotion to her family, and impeccable style touched the lives of all who knew her. Pat departed this world peacefully on April 8, 2025, in Woodstock, Illinois, surrounded by her loving family, a testament to the immense love she cultivated throughout her life.
Born on January 8, 1961, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Pat was the cherished daughter of John and Marilyn Lierman. From her earliest days, she possessed a vibrant energy and a remarkable ability to connect with others. As one of six siblings, she was an integral part of a close-knit and uniquely bonded family that extended far beyond her immediate household. The annual gatherings of this expansive family, numbering over forty, were a testament to the love and joy they shared, filled with laughter, the recounting of cherished memories, and spirited games of Left Right Center. These moments were a cornerstone of Pat's life and a source of immense happiness. She was a beloved sister to Denise Eesley (Michael Eesley), John Lierman (Sue Lierman), Julie Thompson (Mark Thompson), Karen Howes (Bruce Howes), and Susie Caswell (DJ Caswell), forming bonds that would last a lifetime.
Pat graduated with a degree in Business Administration from Grand Valley State University, a testament to her intelligence and drive. Her professional journey included roles at esteemed organizations such as Johnson & Johnson, Russell Stover, Legacy Custom Homes, and Volunteer Coordinator at Northwestern Medicine, where her dedication and personable nature shone.
However, Pat's true calling and greatest joy lay in her role as a devoted mother to her twin daughters, Lydia and Alayna, and her son, Kevin. She navigated the complexities of parenthood with extraordinary strength and unwavering commitment, becoming the consistent and guiding force in her children's lives. Through her tireless efforts and boundless love, she ensured they were nurtured, supported, and equipped for every opportunity, embodying the essence of both mother and father with grace and resilience. Her children were the absolute center of her universe, and her pride in them knew no bounds.
Pat possessed a rare gift for making people laugh. Her quick wit, often delivered with a perfectly timed touch of sarcasm, had the uncanny ability to lighten any situation and bring smiles to countless faces. She had a way of saying what everyone else was thinking, often with a humorous twist that made her truly unforgettable.
Beyond her immediate family, Pat was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, and a loyal friend. She cherished family traditions, from over 25 years of cherished summer holidays at Hessel and then Spider Lake, filled with laughter and togetherness, to the bustling joy of annual Christmas gatherings and the treasured tradition of a girls' shopping weekend spanning many years. These moments, spent surrounded by loved ones, were the fabric of her happiest memories.
Pat was a woman of deep and abiding Catholic faith, which provided her with strength and solace throughout her life. She also found profound happiness in her loving relationship with her significant other, Kevin Kirwan., who was the love of her life.
Always impeccably dressed and possessing an innate sense of style, Pat was a woman of grace and elegance. Her positive outlook and beautiful spirit radiated from within, earning her the well-deserved title of "classy woman" in the eyes of all who knew her. She was a fun-loving warrior, navigating life with strength and resilience, particularly as the primary caretaker who embraced the weight of providing a stable and loving home for her children.
Pat's generous heart extended beyond her family. She was a dedicated volunteer coordinator who loved her volunteers and embraced the importance of tradition. Her thoughtfulness and willingness to always put others first left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
Pat's absence will be deeply felt by her beloved children, Lydia, Alayna, and Kevin; her devoted partner, Kevin Kirwan.; her dear siblings, Denise (Michael), John (Sue), Julie (Mark), Karen and Susie (DJ); and her cherished extended family of over forty, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and loyal friends. Pat was preceded in death by her parents and by her brother-in-law, Bruce Howes.
Visitation will be on Thursday, April 10, 2025 from 4-8pm at DeFiore Funeral Home-10763 Dundee Road, Huntley A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, April 11, 2025 at 1pm at St. Mary Catholic Church 312 Lincoln Ave. Woodstock, IL.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Pat's memory to the Herbst Children. https://everloved.com/life-of/patricia-herbst/donate/
Checks can be made payable to the Herbst Family.
For further information please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com
Pat's vibrant spirit, infectious laughter, unwavering love, and remarkable strength will be deeply missed but forever treasured. She was truly one of a kind, and her memory will continue to inspire and bring a smile to the faces of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
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I had about four volunteer coordinators at Northwestern before pat came on board and she was the best ever. I love what the obituary says in every word of it is true and I’m so glad we shared a special friendship.
Sending healing wishes during this upsetting time. Rest in peace Pat ❤️
As the brother to Kevin Kirwan and living in Ireland my opportunities to meet Pat were limited but we did have a lovely time with her in Kentucky April last year. She was a lovely person and Kevin has been so fortunate to have had her in his life. Kevin always spoke fondly and enthusiastically of Pat. The obituary piece is insightful and demonstrates the special individual she was. She was that warrior woman spoken of there. Rest in peace Pat.
We are so very sorry for the loss of Pat. She was a joy to be around. We have had the pleasure of spending time with the Lierman clan and understand the closeness you all share. May God wrap his ever loving arms around you all at this time of sorrow.
Sending much love and many hugs to you all. May you cherish all the beautiful memories and hold Pat close to your heart, as she will always remain there with you. Please accept my deepest condolences. My heart goes out to all of you during this difficult time.
Our heartfelt condolences to the Herbst family. We have wonderful memories of growing up with Patty and the entre Lierman family. We are so sorry for your loss.
As a little girl, my memories of Pat are priceless. Pat, along with every member of the Lierman family, was always so good to me. I remember all the Lierman girls gathered in Aunt Bonnie's bedroom for those "girls only" moments. I cannot express the love that was always felt for me as a young girl. Pat always took time to make me feel important. I'll never forget that.
My prayers and sympathy to Pat's entire family and my dear friend Kevin. Pat was a wonderful lady who I always enjoyed seeing. Rest in peace Pat.
Pat, my heart is shattered that you left so soon. I’ll always remember your beauty, inside and out. You were a joy to with and I’ll always remember your cards, notes and emails you sent. Prayers to your family
Cousin Bob and Steve are heart broken with the lose of Patty we both grew up with every one of the girls and there one brother Johnny .out mother z
She will be dearly missed by all of the Northwestern Medicine volunteer staff. Rest in Peace Beautiful and my sympathy to all who loved her.
I met pat when i wanted to start my volunteer services in NW huntley , she interviewed me and given tour of hospital . she was very professional and kind. may her soul rest in peace.
We are so saddened by your loss. Pat really was a force of nature and I have so many fond memories of days spent with the whole Lierman family. I know how deeply she was loved by all of you and I pray your wonderful memories will bring you comfort as you mourn your loss and celebrate Pat's life.
I am a volunteer and Pat knew better than me as to where I would be a good fit. I was volunteering in the ICU until I was reassigned to Immediate Care. At first I wasn’t sure about handling ICU, but she said give at it chance, and I did and felt like I was a helper until they did some reconstruction and I moved to Immediate Care where I am also happy. You will be missed.
Dear friend I will miss you so much. Pat visited me as a patient in the hospital 2 to 3 times a day in Huntley. When I was at Woodstock for therapy after my stroke she visited me every day and text me. Always bringing me a treat. She was so personable and caring.
Life is unfair. Pat, I just want you to know that you gave me two of my best summer breaks ever. You gave me confidence, language skills and trust. I will always remember your laughter. Thank you!
My deepest sympathy to her family. Pat was a coworker and a friend. She will be deeply missed.
As a volunteer at Huntley Hospital, I had the pleasure of knowing Pat for over two years. Pat went above and beyond to accommodate my school schedule and ensure that I was set up to succeed in the Same Day Surgery department. She also willingly helped me find other opportunities to expand my skills and help me grow as a person. The volunteers loved her presence. Her passing is a tragedy, and she will forever be missed. May she rest in peace.
So sorry to hear of Pats passing. May she rest in peace.
Wow. What a beautiful person. I have volunteered for many years. She has always thought of ways to make the patients comfortable and well taken care of. I can't say enough about her amazing personality. She made me smile and sometimes laugh and I heard such wonderful stories of her son and twin girls, as well as her partner Kevin. She always asked how I was doing and was genuinely interested. She was also a wonderful baker. What great treats she brought to us. Rest in Peace my friend!!!
I am a volunteer who had the privilege of working with Pat. She made me feel as if I was her "favorite " volunteer with her unmatched friendliness and appreciative. She was truly a gracious and lovely person and I have missed her very much
We are deeply saddened to hear of her passing and are holding the Herbst family in our prayers during this difficult time.
Julie is our neighbor, and I did not have the privilege of knowing Pat. However, after hearing about her beautiful life of faith in God, focus on others, and joyful life without complaint, I was inspired to live in the same manner. May the God of all comfort blanket Pat's family with His supernatural peace.
Our sincere condolences all of Mrs. Pat's family. Our prayers are with you, and we always remember her in our hearts. God be with all of you.