Patricia Ilnicki, 85, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a life defined by curiosity, kindness, and a deep love of learning. She will be remembered for her intellect, her               generosity of spirit, and the love and support she gave to all who knew her.

Born November 11, 1940, in Amsterdam, NY, to Francis Michael Connolly and Genevieve M. (Oakes), Pat graduated from Wilbur Lynch High School in 1958, earning a Regent Scholarship for Academic Excellence. She later graduated from Oneonta State University in 1962.

Pat enjoyed a career in the New York State Library System—perfect for a voracious reader, who was rarely seen without a book close at hand.

In 1967, Pat married Henry Ilnicki. Together, they shared a love of adventure, traveling throughout the world, forming friendships along the way. They also shared a passion for the arts, frequently attending the Albany Symphony and making many memorable trips to New York City to enjoy the Metropolitan Opera. Their summers were spent on Galway Lake, where Pat and Henry enjoyed the company of friends and family, and their many beloved pets.

Pat was predeceased by her parents and husband, Henry, in 2016. She is survived by nieces: Barbara Bishop (Tony Ward) of Schenectady; Rosemary Bishop (Gary Feindland) of Niskayuna; Carol Bishop of Lyman, Maine; and Nicole Graf (Ray) of Delmar. She also leaves behind many cherished friends, cousins, grand and great-grand nieces and nephews, who lovingly called her Aunt.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 21st, at 11:30 at New Scotland Presbyterian Church, 2010 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands followed by a reception at the church. A private burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Pat's memory to the P.E.O. Foundation (peointernational.org>foundation) or the Albany Symphony (https://www.albanysymphony.com/).

The family would like to thank Pat's two wonderful aides, Maria DeMaritino and Indera Chaudhry, for their love and friendship and also recognize the doctors, nurses and staff at Ellis Hospital's 4th floor for their warmth and compassion during Pat's final days. Condolence messages may be left at www.gleasonfuneralhomeinc.com