Steven Patke

Steven Joseph Patke, 54, passed away June 25, 2005, at home following a hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer. Visitation will take place at St. Peter’s Church, Meyer Blvd. and Holmes Rd., from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesday, June 28. A Funeral Mass celebrating Steve’s life will immediately follow; burial will occur at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network or Cancer Action KC. Steve was born on June 20, 1951, in Washington, MO, to Joseph F. and Helen (Toennies) Patke. He grew up in St. Charles, MO, and graduated high school from St. Vincent’s College in Cape Girardeau, MO, in 1969. After attending St. Mary’s Seminary in Perryville, MO, for a few years, Steve came to Kansas City to attend the University of Missouri-Kansas City where he received degrees in both philosophy and instrumental music education. While at the UMKC Conservatory of Music, Steve met his wife Jody Mantarro and they were married on September 2, 1978, in Mystic, CT. For over 30 years, Steve was a professional musician in Kansas City and played clarinet, saxophone, and flute at many different venues around town. He served on the Board of Directors of the local Musicians Union for several terms. He was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church where he enjoyed sharing his musical talents. Steve is survived by his wife Jody; son Benjamin and daughter Katherine, both of the home; brothers Daniel Patke and wife Ann Marie, Lexington Park, MD, and Joseph Patke and wife Michelle, St. Louis, MO; and nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by both his parents and two brothers. Besides his family, Steve leaves behind scores of friends and fans who have provided great care and support, especially during the last year and a half.