Memorial

Patti Tully Thacker, a long-time Cedar Rapids advocate, and community champion passed away peacefully on March 5 at Mercy Hallmar.

Patti was born at Dubuque’s Mercy Hospital on April 17, 1934 to Eugene and Mary Ann Tully. She attended Immaculate Conception school in Dubuque before furthering her education. Patti married the love of her life, John Luke Thacker, on June 20, 1964 at Immaculate Conception Church in Cedar Rapids.  

Patti had a long and successful career centered in the fashion industry, most notably at Killian’s in Cedar Rapids. Her work took her around the world to the global centers of style in Paris, London, and New York.  Always curious and an avid traveler, Patti adored people, culture and history.  Patti was an avid reader and prolific writer.  Many of her works are featured in the book, Kaleidoscope: An Anthology.

Deeply involved in her community and a political advocate, Patti volunteered and celebrated countless non-profit and cultural organizations including Brucemore, the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library, Theater Cedar Rapids, reading programs in Cedar Rapids schools, P.E.O., NCSML Writers Guild and countless other charities.  Patti was especially involved in causes supporting and protecting animals.

Survivors include many devoted friends, her twin sister Mary Ellen Sullivan, her nephew Dennis Sullivan, her close friends Ron Godwin, Julie Shelton and Matt Paul, Christie Vilsack and Claudette Roby.  She was preceded in death by her husband John and beloved dogs Sandy and Shannon.

A celebration of Patti’s remarkable life will be held on March 27 and March 28.  Friends should gather at Cedar Memorial on Sunday, March 27 from 2:00pm to 5:00pm for visitation.  Mass of Christian Burial will take place Monday, March 28 at 11:00 at St. Matthew’s Catholic Parish, 2310 First Avenue NE followed by a Champagne Brunch Celebrating Patti at The Flamingo, 1211 Ellis Boulevard. A private inurnment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Patti Thacker Fund for the Animals at Critter Crusaders of Cedar Rapids.