Dorothy A. Patrakis

SOMERS, CT - Dorothy Agnes (Catuogno) Patrakis, 83, passed away peacefully on Tuesday February 23, 2016. Born in Springfield, MA November 5th, 1932 to George and Irene Catuogno, and known by friends and family as Dolly, she was a longtime Springfield area resident. Dolly was a 1950 graduate of the former Technical High School. She willingly relinquished a four year scholarship opportunity to Art School, to marry and begin a family. Without question, family was paramount in Dolly's life. On June 7th, 1950 she married Michael P. Patrakis, also of Springfield. Together they raised six children, and were married for 61 years. Dolly was very social, and enjoyed a large and diverse group of friends. Her continued love of art prompted her develop a small, in home, ceramics studio, where she and her "Ceramic Girls" would meet weekly to paint and socialize. This continued for more than 50 years, with many of the same "Ceramic Girls". For many years, she was a communicant of Holy Name Parish, and had served as President of the Women's Club. Many people knew Dolly for the career she assumed, after raising her children, in tax and financial consulting. Dolly and her husband shared a love of travel, and did so often. Those that knew her best would describe her as thoughtful, generous, determined, and a loyal friend. She will truly be missed by many. Dolly was predeceased by two daughters, Dorene G. Patrakis-Corbin, who passed away tragically on Dec. 27th, 1991, and Laura A. Stopa, who passed peacefully on Oct. 21st, 2008. Dolly will be deeply missed by her children and their families: daughter Christine M. Taylor and her husband Dana of East Longmeadow, daughter Marcia l. Guidi and her husband Skal of the Highlands in Holyoke, daughter Louise A. Weed and her husband Bruce of West Columbia, S.C., and her son, Michael P.S. Patrakis and his wife Maria of Wilbraham. Additionally, "Gramma" will be missed by her many grandchildren and great grandchildren, whom she loved deeply, and to whom she would impart valuable advice and counsel, garnered over her lifetime. The family wishes to acknowledge a special THANK YOU to Patty, Phyllis, and Shirley for the love and friendship shown, especially over the last several years. In accordance with her wishes, private services will be held at St. Cecilia’s Church, Wilbraham with burial to follow in St Michael Cemetery. In lieu of cards and flowers, donations can be made to the Pan-Mass Challenge (to benefit Dana Farber). Please make memorial donations payable to the PMC and mail to 77 4th Avenue, Needham, MA 02494. Please indicate Michael Patrakis with your gift. Donations can also be made online at http://profile.pmc.org/MP0265. New England Funeral & Cremation Center, LLC 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA has been entrusted with the arrangements. Visit www.nefcc.net We invite you to send a message of condolence to the Patrakis family at www.nefcc.net

Dorothy A. Patrakis

November 5, 1932 - February 23, 2016