Patricia Diane Brockway, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the age of 66. Patricia’s departure from this world leaves a profound sense of loss in the hearts of those who knew her, but her spirit and legacy will forever be cherished by all who were touched by her warmth, resilience, and devotion.

Born on October 13, 1959, in Waverly, Iowa, Patricia was the cherished daughter of Earnest and Thelma (Quibell) Crawford. Growing up in Iowa instilled in Patricia a heartfelt connection to her community and family. She thrived as a student, graduating from Allison-Bristow and later pursuing both business and English Literature at the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls. Her pursuit of education set the tone for the lifelong curiosity and determination that defined her character.

The course of Patricia’s life changed forever in 1980, when a chance blind date introduced her to the love of her life, Gene Brockway. Their instant connection blossomed into a love story marked by nearly forty-six years of steadfast marriage. They exchanged vows on November 15, 1980, at St John’s Church in Waterloo, Iowa, embarking on a journey together that would be filled with joy, adventure, and unconditional support for each other.

Together, Patricia and Gene built a family rooted in laughter and love, welcoming three children—Andy, Erik, and Kelly—each of whom became the pride and light of her life. Patricia’s heart expanded even more with the arrival of her grandchildren: Brantlee, Briggs, Ora, Lilah, and Oliver. She adored every moment spent with them, finding boundless joy and fulfillment in attending their sporting events and witnessing their achievements. She crocheted blankets with patience and care, sharing these tokens of her affection and warmth.

Patricia’s professional journey was marked by dedication and generosity. She worked alongside Gene at Chamberlin’s, where their partnership extended beyond home. Following Chamberlin’s closure, she became a training coordinator for the Waterloo Fire Department—a role she embraced with compassion for 28 years. Patricia decided to explore new opportunities and began working in admissions at MercyOne, continually seeking new ways to make a difference. With characteristic drive, she earned her EMT license and found deep meaning as a volunteer EMT with Evansdale, serving her community with empathy and grace.

A woman with a deep sense of adventure, Patricia shared a special bond with her daughter, Kelli, forging lifelong memories as they traveled together near and far. From the breathtaking coasts of New England to the wide expanses of Idaho, every journey became a testament to Patricia’s love of discovery and her appreciation for life’s simple and profound wonders. One of her proudest moments came when, while on a Florida beach with Kelli, she fulfilled her long-held dream of witnessing a rocket launch—her passion for space ignited to its fullest, her smile shining with uncontainable happiness.

Patricia’s legacy is one of unwavering strength, boundless compassion, and a multitude of warm, laughter-filled memories. She was preceded in death by her parents, Earnest and Thelma Crawford, who now welcome her with open arms.

Those who remain to honor her life and carry forward her memory include her devoted husband, Larry “Gene” Brockway of Denver, IA; her three children, Andrew (Lindsey) Brockway of Janesville, IA, Erik (Brittney) Brockway of Bondurant, IA, Kelli Brockway of Denver IA; her adored grandchildren, Brantlee, Briggs, Ora, Lilah, and Oliver; her brothers, Larry Crawford of Allison, IA, and Richard Crawford of Des Moines, IA; and many more family members and dear friends whose lives were made all the richer by knowing her.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Parrott & Wood Chapel Of Memories, 965 Home Plaza, Waterloo, IA. A funeral service to remember and celebrate Patricia’s life will take place on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 11:00 am at the same location.

Those who knew Patricia Diane Brockway will remember her as a beacon of generosity, a loving presence, and a steadfast force in the lives of all those she held dear. May her spirit live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and may the memories of her kindness, joy, and adventurous soul bring comfort in the days ahead.