Patricia M. Chmiel

Patricia Margaret Chmiel, age 87, of Kalamazoo, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2025. Born on November 23, 1937, in Kalamazoo to the late Clarence E. and Elizabeth F. (Howard) Luckey. Patti lived a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

A proud graduate of Comstock High School, Patti furthered her education with college courses before dedicating 38 years to driving a school bus for Comstock Public Schools. She safely guided generations of students to and from school, forming lasting connections and earning the love and respect of many in the community.

Patti had a vibrant spirit and a passion for life. She was a devoted sports fan, never missing a game of her beloved Tennessee Lady Vols basketball team. She also cheered faithfully for the University of Michigan football team and the Detroit Lions. Patti had a deep love of music and live performances, attending concerts whenever she could—seeing Reba McEntire ten times and many others.

She found peace and joy in nature, especially along the shores of Lake Michigan. Patti spent many summers in South Haven, Michigan, walking along the beach and searching for beach glass, treasuring the simple beauty of the waves and sand.

Growing up, Patti spent her summers in Watervliet, New York, with her extended family, creating some of her fondest memories. She cherished those times and the lifelong connections she built there.

Patti cherished her family above all, finding immense happiness in her roles as grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a special person to so many people.

She is survived by her loving husband, Walter P. Chmiel, and her children, Paul Chmiel (wife Lorie Chmiel) and Sherri (Chmiel) Martin (husband Chuck Martin). She was a proud grandmother to Craig Chmiel, Jordan Chmiel, Andrew Martin, and Danny Martin and a great-grandmother to Chase Chmiel. Patti was preceded in death by her siblings, Howard Luckey, Bob Luckey, and Imogene Luckey.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Thursday, February 6, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, 622 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. Patti will be laid to rest at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park South.

In honor of Patti’s love for animals, memorial contributions may be made to the Kalamazoo Humane Society, 2272 River St, Kalamazoo, MI 49048.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, please visit https://www.langelands.com.