"I knew Patty only briefly, as I would greet her and Bob (and canine helper Connor) on Sunday mornings at Grace Lutheran Church in Gwinn. Nevertheless, I felt a peacefulness in her presence, sensing a gentle, caring woman whom I would have enjoyed knowing better. My heart goes out to her family and to all who knew and loved her. I know from Bob that her health had been compromised from a very young age, and, though we all know her suffering is now ended, her absence leaves still an empty space in your hearts. My husband, Bud, and I are so sorry for your loss and pray for the comfort of God and of a caring community. Grace and peace, Chrys Hendrick"
In loving memory of
PATRICIA ANN "PATTY" FRIOT
April 24, 1947 - November 23, 2022
Patricia Ann Friot, 75, of Sawyer, passed away Wednesday afternoon, November 23, 2022 at U.P. Health System-Marquette.
Patty was born on April 24, 1947 in Saginaw, a daughter of the late Melvin and Frances (Tilden) Watters. She was a 1965 graduate of Arthur Hill High School in Saginaw and had resided in the Gwinn area since 2000.
Patty and her husband, Bob, owned and operated an adult foster care home at Sawyer for six years. In her free time, she enjoyed being a mother, baking, crocheting, canning, and gardening.
Survivors include her husband of 33 years, Robert Friot; 6 children, Becky (Scott) Thatcher of Lake Odessa, MI, John (Amanda) Coburn of Sawyer, Janelle Friot and Keith (Ellen) Friot, both of North Carolina, Amy Friot of New Berlin, NY, and Susie Coburn of Sawyer; 15 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren; a brother, Michael (Deborah) Watters of Jordan Lake, MI; sister, Sandra Aaron of Saginaw, MI; sister-in-law, Karen Watters of Bellaire, MI; also several nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death besides her parents was a step-son, Michael Friot, a brother, Tim Watters and a brother-in-law, John Aaron.
The Friot family will greet relatives and friends on Wednesday, November 30th at Grace Lutheran Church in Gwinn beginning at 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m. in the church with the Rev. Jack Busche officiating. Spring burial will take place in the West Branch Township Cemetery. Pallbearers will be John Coburn, Seth Coburn, Scott Thatcher, Garrett Lilley, Robert Dorn, Keith Friot, and David Freeman.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a church of the donor's choice in Patty's memory.
Canale Gwinn Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the Friot family where memories of Patty may be shared at canalefuneral.com.