Patricia Jo (Doering) Boruff

With a heavy heart we share the news of Patricia Jo (Doering) Boruff's passing on November 8, at the age of 85. Pat, as she was known by her friends and family, peacefully transitioned in her Venice home, where she had made countless memories over her 50+ years of residence. Born on September 12, 1938, in Geneseo, Illinois to Dr. Peter J. and Marjorie “Sandy” (Sanquist) Doering, Pat's life journey included many exciting and interesting moments. On July 15, 1961, she embarked on a lifelong adventure when she married her love, Gary C. Boruff, of Buffalo Prairie, Illinois. Pat's education led her from Geneseo Township High School to the University of Wisconsin Madison, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development. Her college years were also marked by her membership in the Gamma Phi Beta sorority, where she made lasting friendships. While Pat started a career as a full-time kindergarten teacher in Riverside, Illinois, her most significant role was that of a loving mother and dedicated wife. She embraced the joys and challenges of raising her children, which became her primary focus. Yet, her commitment to education remained unwavering, as she continued as a substitute teacher and school volunteer in both Riverside and Venice, Florida. Together with her husband Gary, Pat ventured into business, first with a funeral home in Riverside and later as the proud owners and managers of four retail shoe stores in Venice, Sarasota, and Bradenton, Florida. In 1973, the Boruff family decided to call Venice, Florida their new home. Pat's love for her community shone brightly as she engaged in numerous volunteer and service roles. She generously lent her time to Epiphany Cathedral School, Venice Middle School, and Venice High School, supporting her children's education. Additionally, she devoted 17 years of service to the village Code Enforcement Board, was actively involved with the Venice Main Street association, and was a dedicated member of the Friends of the Venice Public Library. Her commitment to education extended to her active membership in the American Association of University Women. Pat's invaluable contributions to the Venice Mainstreet Arts Festival earned her an "Unsung Heroes" award from the Venice Arts and Culture Alliance. Supporting and advancing her community was a true passion! Pat and Gary were frequent travelers who believed in the beauty of exploring the world and staying connected with extended family and friends. They embarked on unforgettable journeys, from Europe to the Amazon, Australia, and numerous trips across the United States, including "Mad May Weekends" with their dear friends. When at home, Pat enjoyed evenings with Gary at the Venice Little Theatre and Venice Symphony, and weekly morning coffee with her close-knit aerobics group of 30 years. Pat is survived by her beloved husband, Gary, and their children, Debbie (Mike) Marhee of Longwood, Florida; Chris (Julie) Boruff of Hinsdale, Illinois; and Bryan (Bridget) Boruff of Perth, Western Australia. Her legacy continues through her seven cherished grandchildren: Kristin and Ryan Marhee, Madeleine and Chelsea Boruff, and Noah, Matilda, and Charles Boruff. In recent years, Pat was especially appreciative of granddaughter Kristin’s healthcare counsel as a Palliative Care APRN. Pat's parents and her brother, James Doering, have preceded her in death. Pat's passing leaves a void in our lives, but her memory will forever be etched in our hearts. She will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her family and community, her love for education, and her adventurous spirit. Pat's journey on this earth was filled with love and generosity, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Visitation is scheduled from 4:00-8:00 pm on Friday, November 17 at Ewing/Toale Brothers Funeral Home, 140 E Venice Avenue. A service will be held at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice on Saturday, November 18 at 10:30 am. Burial at Venice Memorial Gardens, 1950 Center Road, will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Venice Little Theatre or Friends of the Venice Public Library.

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Patricia Jo (Doering) Boruff

September 12, 1938 - November 8, 2023