Patricia Jean Dretke

Patricia Jean Dretke, 77, of Massillon, passed away on Thursday, April 29, 2021. Pat was born on April 30, 1943 in New Philadelphia, Ohio, the daughter of the late Robert and Clara Hency. She was a lifelong member of the Canton Baptist Temple and a resident of the Massillon area. Pat graduated from Jackson High School in 1963 where she met and married her sweetheart, John Dretke. She found that her niche in life was her passion for helping others. Pat truly loved her job as the gift shop manager at both Doctor’s Hospital and Massillon Community Hospital for over 20 years. Additionally, she was very creative and loved crafting. In fact, she made the most magical snowmen which were enjoyed by so many. She loved spending time with her family, game nights with friends and being outdoors. It brought her great joy to seek out the perfect gift for any special occasion. Most importantly, Pat never met a stranger and befriended everyone in her path. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband John Dretke in 1999, and her sister Betty Brownlee. She is survived by her daughters and their spouses Christine (David) Spotts, Denise (Joe) Mutchler, and Amy Dretke; grandsons, Nathan (Alyssa) Spotts, Tyler (Kaylie) Spotts, and Logan Spotts; great grandsons, Gideon and Owen; and seven nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Pat’s life will be held on Thursday, May 6th, 2021 at 1 p.m. at the Paquelet Funeral Home in Massillon. Her nephew, Joe Brownlee, Jr. will be Officiating. Those unable to attend the service may go to www.paquelet.com and click on Facebook Live Streaming at 1 p.m. to watch the service. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 12 – 1 p.m. before the service. Continuing with COVID-19 precautions, all attending will be asked to follow proper social distancing protocol and masks are also required. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to either, Traditions Health Hospice or the American Cancer Society. The family would like to thank the compassionate nursing staff at Amherst Meadows and the wonderful circle of family and friends who have been so supportive over the years. Paquelet Funeral Home & Crematory (330) 833-3222