Patricia Ann Zarkowski

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we remember and celebrate the life of Patricia Ann Zarkowski, who passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas, surrounded by the warmth of family and the legacy of a life well-lived.

Born on June 23, 1939, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Patricia—known lovingly as Pat—was the treasured daughter of Hazel Clare (Foster) and Willis Edwin Dugan. She was a beloved sister to Mary, Margie, Jim, and Gina.

Pat’s greatest joy in life was her family. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Terri (David) Epperson, Robert (Judy) Dryg, Kim Proctor, and Michael (Kristin) Dryg. She was the proud grandmother of Shelby, Kyler, Alexandra, Victoria, Zachary, Dillon, Rachael, Emily, Dugan, and Aubrie, and the joyful great-grandmother to seven precious great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Professionally, Pat worked as a media buyer, a role that showcased her attention to detail and ability to make meaningful connections. But it was at home where her heart truly thrived. Her home was the heartbeat of countless family gatherings, filled with home-cooked meals, laughter, love, and endless chaos.

Pat had a quiet but joyful spirit. She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures: playing games, doing puzzles, and especially crocheting potholders, which she gave generously to those she loved—including friends, family, and even her favorite doctors and nurses. These small gifts carried the warmth of her hands and the love in her heart.

She was deeply devoted to her late husband, Ed, and shared her days with her sweet pup, Eddie, who rarely left her side. Whether relaxing on her back patio, stirring up something delicious, in the kitchen, or enjoying her favorite cocktail in the company of loved ones, Pat embraced life with grace and affection.

Though her absence leaves a space that can never be filled, her memory will continue to live on through every family recipe, every shared laugh, and every crocheted potholder still warming a kitchen somewhere.