Patricia Sharon Kolm, fondly known as “Pat” — and lovingly called Nana by her grandchildren — passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, in Waco, Texas, at the age of 84. Born on May 12, 1941, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Pat was a cherished and steady presence in the lives of all who knew her. She lived a life devoted to her family, her faith, and her community, embodying the true spirit of a matriarch.

Pat’s legacy is one filled with love and care. She was an amazing mother and Nana who poured her heart into nurturing her daughters, her grandchildren and now recently great-grandchild, creating a home where everyone felt welcomed, safe, and deeply loved. Her warmth and devotion as a caretaker made her the heart of her family, and her love truly knew no bounds. Simply spending time with those she loved was her greatest joy.

She and her beloved husband, Karl, shared nearly 63 years of marriage — a love story marked by devotion, partnership, and deep faith. Together they built a home filled with laughter, resilience, and unconditional love. Together they raised four fiercely independent, strong daughters who love the Lord, teaching them by example how to work hard, care deeply, and stand firmly in their faith.

As a founding member of St. Jerome Catholic Church in Waco, Pat’s faith guided her life. Her active involvement in the women’s group reflected her generous spirit and her desire to serve others and contribute meaningfully to her community.

In her personal time, Pat found joy in life’s simple pleasures: gardening, baking, sewing, and puzzles. She was especially known for her Christmas cookies, a treasured tradition that brought family and friends together year after year. Her love of gardening also flourished through her participation in the garden club, where she delighted in nurturing plants and creating beautiful spaces.

Pat is survived by her beloved husband, Karl; her daughters Karen Cowan and husband Quinton, Karol Mayer, Kimberly George and husband Glenn, and Katie Kolm. She was a proud grandmother to Carter Cowan and Kelli Love, Mackenzie Cowan, Cole Mayer and wife Megan, Olivia Mayer, Adrienne George, and Andrew George, and the joyful great-grandmother of Callie Mayer. She is also survived by her brother, Gene Schmitt, and wife Dorothy.

Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Pat’s life on February 20, 2026, at Grace Gardens Funeral Home, 8220 Woodway Drive, Woodway, Texas. Visitation will be held from 1:00–2:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2:00 PM and a reception immediately after.

The family is forever grateful for the compassion and care shown to Pat by the team at Providence Hospice and the nursing staff of 4 South.

As we reflect on Pat’s extraordinary life, we hold close the kindness, quiet strength, steadfast faith, and unwavering love she shared so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all whose lives she touched. Her love lives on in every recipe shared, every flower planted, and the joyful noise of family gathered together, a lasting legacy carried on in the beautiful family she so lovingly built.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Providence Hospice or to the charity of your choice.