Patricia Gerianne O'Malley

Patricia Gerianne O’Malley, affectionately known as Patti, was born in Detroit, MI on January 8, 1958, third child of William and Elizabeth O’Malley and left this life unexpectedly and way too soon on 9/23/20 in Boyne City, MI

Patti attended St. Suzanne elementary school and Bishop Borgess High School.  She was a gifted sprinter and while running with the Motor City Striders, won three gold medals in the Junior Olympics.  Soon after graduation, Patti visited Boyne City, MI and fell in love with the beauty and peacefulness of “up north” but also with the man that she would eventually marry, Robbin Behling, and his young son, Tim Behling.  She embraced the northern Michigan lifestyle as well as the entire Behling family and spent many happy years working and playing in pure Michigan style. 

Patti was employed in various capacities but her work passions were senior citizens and Lavender Hills Farm, her “happy place”.  In her leisure time, she enjoyed skiing, cheering on the Detroit Tigers, hiking with her beloved collie, Lizzie and gardening.  Patti was a Master Gardner which was reflected in the beautiful landscapes she maintained.

Patti was a kind and gentle yet feisty Irish woman.  As cousin Maureen said, “She had a giant heart in that tiny body.”   Patti’s final act of kindness was to be a Gift of Life organ donor.

Very sadly, Patti was predeceased by her loving husband, Rob, in 2012.  She is survived, loved and missed by her son, Tim, his wife, Denise, granddaughters Taylor and Kennedy and great grandson, Tanner.  They were the brightest lights in her life.  Also missing her forever are her siblings Karen (George), Bill and Bob.  Patti will be sorely missed by her Boyne City family, Jim and Marge Behling, Cathy and Pete Hammond, Terrie and Gil Redmond and their children and grandchildren as well as a plethora of friends all across Michigan. 

“Love doesn’t die, people do.  When all that’s left of me is love, give me away.”

In lieu of flowers, Patti’s family would appreciate donations in her name to Gift of Life.

A gathering of family and friends will be held 11:00 to 1:00 PM Friday, October 2nd at St. Matthews Church in Boyne City.

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