Patricia Hartwig Sturm

November 20, 1933 - May 7, 2024 The family of Patricia H. Sturm age 90, announces her peaceful passing at home on May 7, 2024. Born in Ithaca, NY to Charles and Ruth Hartwig, she pursued her passion for elementary education at Cortland State Teacher's College. Pat met and eloped with John W. Sturm, during their senior year at Cortland. They graduated, side-by-side, as Mr. & Mrs, in 1955; she proudly with Honors. They celebrated 62 anniversaries. Mrs. Sturm began her career as a first grade teacher in Ken-Ton Schools. After a 20yr hiatus to raise her three children, she returned to Buffalo State College to complete a Masters of Special Education, at 58 years old. Her career continued for 10 more years, leading her own classroom at Heritage Centers. Patricia is predeceased by her husband, and brother, James Russell, of Saranac Lake, and leaves behind her children Mary (Edward Stolla), Tracy, John and grandson, Jacob Sturm. Pat was an active contributor to our community for more than 60yrs, as Girl Scout leader of Troop 779, supporter of Ken-East athletics, swim team and color guard mom, and SPCA volunteer. Additionally, she was an expert seamstress/crafter/do-it-yourselfer, high-point bowler and member of the Tonawanda Senior Center and choral group. Pat never missed an opportunity to cast her ballot and make her vote count. Despite a catastrophic stroke in 2010, she continued to blaze in all her glory. We are thankful for every moment. She is already missed. Friends may visit the Lombardo Funeral Home (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd (near Eggert) Tuesday May 14, 12-3pm and 5-8pm. Service at Lombardo, Wednesday May 15 at 11am. Donations may be made to Girl Scouts of WNY, 4433 Genesee St, #101, Buffalo 14225 or http://www.gswny.org Donate for the campership program.