Patricia M. (Volk) Crist, age 79, of 625 Edick Rd., Richfield Springs, (town of Springfield) peacefully entered into eternal rest on Sunday evening, September 4, 2005 in the comfort of her home after a courageous battle with cancer. At the time of her passing she was surrounded with the love and support of her family at her bedside. She was born on March 18, 1926 in Herkimer, a daughter of the late George and Susan (Finnigan) Volk and received her education in Herkimer schools. On August 14th 1948 she married Robert T. Pross, in Herkimer New York. He passed away on January 10, 1967. Patricia was united with Francis A. Crist in 1969 and they began a loving and close relationship which has been an example and inspiration to all who knew them. Her last professional employment was with the former Standard Desk Factory in Herkimer. She was of the Catholic Faith. Patricia's life revolved around her family, and she considered her children and later their families the most important part of her life. Bestowing upon them her unconditional love and her steadfast loyalty, she was the family rock and protector, dedicated to keeping her loved ones secure and the family together and close. As a grandmother, she enjoyed the company of her grandchildren and spent every possible moment with them. Outside of her home Patricia gained the respect of many. Some of her favorite hobbies were crossword puzzles, knitting, crocheting, swimming, playing cards, and especially snowmobiling. She enjoyed "sledding" with her friends in Richfield Springs all the way up until this past winter. Especially memorable moments were spent at the family camp on Keyser Lake in Dolgeville where the family would gather to enjoy the peace and serenity of nature's surroundings and family life. Survivors include her beloved husband Francis, of the home address; five children: Patricia Lee (Pross)Smith of Ilion, Rhonda S. Sanders and husband Kenneth J. of Springfield, Robert Douglas Pross and wife Doreen of Richfield Springs, Victoria Delong and husband Richard of Ilion, Bub Crist of Springfield Center; a brother: Morris Volk and wife Elizabeth of East Herkimer; fifteen grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; many nieces, including her beloved Catherine Blackwell and husband David of Herkimer, many nephews, cousins and friends. She was predeceased by two daughters: Margaret Lynn Webster, Tracey McCutchen; her siblings: Ida Lafayette, MaryAnn Walrath, Douglas Volk, James Volk, Paul Volk, Madeline Volk, and grandson Shawn Robert Case. The Crist family will receive relatives and friends at the new Enea Family Funeral Home, Main St., between Ilion and Frankfort, (894-8000) on Wednesday, September 7, 2005 from 3-6 p.m. A memorial service will commence at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday evening from the chapel of the Enea Family Funeral Home with the Rev. Terrence Healy, pastor of St. Joseph's Church, Richfield Springs, officiating assisted by Sister Patricia Woolheater, Community Director. Interment is St. Joseph's Cemetery, Richfield Springs will be held at the convenience of the family. Kindly consider memorial offerings in Patricia's name to the Canadarago Lake Snow Toppers or to the Catskill Area Hospice Palliative Care, 1 Birchwood Dr., Oneonta, NY 13820. Donations may be made at the funeral parlor. Patricia's family offer their sincere gratitude to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., for the compassion and support which they provided at this difficult time. Also a heartfelt thanks to the many friends and neighbors for all of their dedication and friendship. Those needing a ride to the services may contact the Enea family at 315-894-8000. For directions to the funeral home, click the facilities link above.