This week, we mourn the loss of Patricia Poskocil, a cherished founding member of the Lombard Historical Society, the Lombard Historic Preservation Commision, and a dedicated longtime resident. With her passing we wanted to reflect on Pat's remarkable contributions to Lombard and the Lombard Historical Society.

Pat's extensive and noteworthy involvement in preserving Lombard's history is truly remarkable. She has been an active member of the Lombard community since the Bicentennial celebration in 1969, and from the very inception of the Lombard Historical Society in 1970. In 1971 and 1972, Pat played a crucial role in the restoration of the Victorian Cottage and turning it into a museum. During those years, she dedicated her time to tasks such as removing wallpaper, painting and more.

Since 1974, Pat has served as a commissioner on the Lombard Historic Preservation Commission. Throughout her tenure, she has held the roles of President, Financial representative, and Personnel within this Village of Lombard committee.

Illinois History Week statehood day at the victorian cottage museum, howard smith and pat poskicil, 1979.

Pat was actively involved in the Book Committee responsible for creating "Footsteps on the Tall Grass Prairie," Lombard's historical account published in 1976 as part of the U.S. Bicentennial Celebration. She, along with her husband, Frank, dedicated numerous volunteer hours to the invaluable task of recording the memories of Lombard's longtime residents and the descendants of its settlers.

In 1996, when the Historical Society acquired the Sheldon Peck home, Pat took on a co-chair role in the Restoration Committee, making a significant impact in fundraising efforts to safeguard and restore this historic homestead. Countless hours of her dedication drove the project forward, with Pat leading the charge every step of the way.

Pat Poskcil and others during the resteration of the SHeldon Peck Homestead, nd.

Gallery of Reproductions at the Sheldon Peck Homestead, 2018

With her educational background in Art and Education, Pat was well-suited for the research related to Sheldon Peck's portraits and paintings, as well as the procurement of museum-grade reproductions. These reproductions now grace the gallery at the Homestead. Within the research committee, Pat played a pivotal role in the Homestead's application and subsequent acceptance into the National Park Service's Network to Freedom in 2011.

Earlier this year, Pat had recently stepped down from her role on the society's board of management, but she continued to offer her guidance and support to both the Collection Committee and remained on the Lombard Historic Preservation Commission.