Patricia Ann (Castilow) Vitez

Patricia Ann Vitez (Castilow) aka Patti, Miss Patti, Mom, Momom, who is a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed over peacefully on January 23rd, 2026, in the WVU Uniontown Hospital surrounded by her family who were telling stories of days gone by and plans of tomorrow. She was preceded in death by her doting husband of 57 years, Carroll Vitez who met her in Heaven with an empty coffee cup asking what is for dinner. The eternal journey for Patti will start at Heaven gate where in addition to her husband, she was greeted by many who went before her. Doug Proug and Mark Orgovan lead the way to her parents, Mildred (Mid) and John (Newt) Castilow. Her sister, Marla Kahn, who was her long time partner in crime and scrabble opponent, her brother Richard Castilow with sand on his toes and a sunburned nose. Her best dog Cody was there to finally see her. Other in-laws and friends are there waiting to show her around.

Patti was a woman of many facets—selfless, stubborn, kind, adventurous, unapologetic, and delightfully wild. Patti lived boldly and fearlessly, never afraid to try something new. Her spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her. Not only did she pave the way for women in EMS by working for 15 years serving the residents of Fayette County by being one of the first paid paramedics at Uniontown Fireman Ambulance Service, she set a precedence for all of EMS starting at Garrett County Rescue Squad that lead to many calls on the South Union Ambulance Service. Her life work was dedicated to the happiness and well being of her family as a loving wife and homemaker. After her many hours on the ambulance and many fire department dinners where every pot and pan was used, her retirement was filled with caring for, playing with, teaching and loving her kids and her grandkids with fu-fu galore! In her later years, both she and Carroll became active members of St. Peter Lutheran Church. The spirit of Patti, love, and adventurous heart will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Left to thrive in her light are her children, Jeff Vitez (Robinette), JoDee Proud (Joe Volcheck and his daughter Brendie Volcheck) and her cherished grandchildren, Jacob Proud (Emily), Allyson Carlson (Andrew), and Dalton Vitez. The family of Miss Patti would like to thank Jamie Spooner and Terra Ritz for being everything we could not. It takes a village to handle a Momom!

A celebration of the life of Patti will be held with her family and friends at the Shell Funeral Home Inc., 164 S. Mt. Vernon Ave., Uniontown, PA., on Thursday, January 29th, from 1 to 3pm and 5 to 7pm. A memorial service will follow with Pastor Jim Engel officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express their sympathy to consider making a donation to St. Peter Lutheran Church, 121 Walnut Hill Rd, Uniontown, PA 15401, Fayette Friends of Animals, PO Box 1282, Uniontown PA 15401 or Keeping the Faith Animal Shelter, 1198 Connellsville Rd, Lemont Furnace PA 15456.

Condolences may be left for the family below.