Patti Fey

Loving, compassionate, and kind, Patti Fey lived a life rich in family and friends. Patti was outgoing, funny, and creative. Regardless of the many hardships she faced, Patti greeted each day with gladness, enveloped every person with love and acceptance, and lived life to the fullest. She never hesitated to help those around her, generously offering support in any way she could. A devoted partner, sister, aunt, and friend to many, Patti’s persevering spirit and wholeheartedness will continue to inspire those she so dearly loved for many years to come.

1953 marked the end of the Korean War, and the nation began to lean into a much-welcomed time of peace. The year proved to hold exciting firsts; the polio vaccine was developed, the first color television sets, transistor radios, and Corvette cars were on sale. While the first James Bond novel made its debut and Peter Pan, From Here to Eternity and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes filled the theaters. The middle-class standard of living continued to grow and appeared to have no boundaries; it was definitely a time of much hope. Nowhere was there greater cause to celebrate the possibilities of hope than in the hearts and home of the Fey family as they welcomed their youngest family member, Patti, on October 7, 1956 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Patti grew up on Collendale Ave., where she enjoyed the good company of her older siblings, Bill, Diane, and Jeana. The family often played together, exploring the woods across the street from their home and playing catch in the backyard. Though her childhood was fairly typical of the times, several birth defects often resulted in making Patti’s childhood difficult.

Patti began her education at Holy Spirit Catholic School and later attended Union High School. After graduating with the class of 1974, Patti worked odd jobs, including as a mechanic for a few years.

Over the years, Patti’s natural creativity took center stage, and without formal training, she became quite skilled at paper mache and folded paper arts. She was thrilled to participate in ArtPrize a few times. She became an established artist in several mediums and for a period of time managed an art gallery in the building where she presently lived.

Patti always led with her heart. She always lived on the northwest side of Grand Rapids and loved her community. A very generous person, Patti would give anyone anything; if a person needed two dollars, she would find a way to provide them with three. She gave away her belongings to those in need and loved to volunteer in her community. She was involved in neighborhood watch and the Grand Rapids Police Department, working with children. Patti generously gave her time to the community center, providing counseling, activities, and support. Her positive impact improved the lives of many, and she was thrilled to be remembered by one of the kids when they saw one another again while shopping at a local store.

Another passion of Patti’s was music, especially classic rock. She loved live music and attending local shows. It’s no wonder to those who knew her best that she met her life partner while attending such a show. She and Dave Creswell, a soundboard operator, were introduced to one another by a mutual friend and instantly connected over their mutual love of music. They started dating and spent the past 14 years sharing their love and companionship.

The couple enjoyed staying up late, listening to music, and attending music events around town. When Dave worked gigs for local bands, Patti was always sure to join in the fun. Every year, they enjoyed going to the music festivals at Pines Point. Patti and Dave also organized several benefit concerts for homeless Veterans. During quiet times, Patti and Dave enjoyed walking together at many local parks.

Patti lovingly took on a motherly role with Dave’s kids and many others in the community. She treasured her nine nieces and nephews and eight great-nieces and nephews and loved her dogs, Buddie and Sadie.

As we celebrate Patti’s life, may we find much comfort in our many treasured memories. May we also find comfort in the honor of carrying her beautiful legacy of love, generosity, and perseverance forward. In each moment we choose to greet the day with confidence and joy, give of our time and talents in service of others, add to the beauty in the world, embrace others with love and kindness, and find happiness in life’s simple pleasures, we keep Patti’s memory alive and continuing to inspire others as she so inspired each of us.

Patricia (Patti) Fey, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at her home. Patti is survived by her life partner, Dave Creswell, and his children, Marylynn, Kylee, and Te-lea. Patti also leaves behind her brother, Bill Fey, and sisters, Diane (Alan) Dykstra and Jeana Williams.

A service to remember Patti will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes, Alt and Shawmut Hills Chapel, located at 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW, 49504, with an hour of visitation prior to the service. Patti had many friends and made friends easily. Her family would like to invite Patti’s friends to visit on Friday night, March 21, 2025, from 4-7 PM at the funeral home as well as an hour before the service on Saturday. Memorial contributions in Patti’s name may be made to The Other Way Ministries. To leave a memory or sign the guest book, please visit www.heritagelifestory.com