Patricia Devaney Van Buskirk Obituary

Patricia Devaney Van Buskirk, age 68, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 23 at Norwalk Hospital, surrounded by love.

Patricia was born in the Bronx, New York, to Ellen Devaney and the late Martin Devaney. One of five siblings, she shared a lifelong close bond with her family. She is lovingly survived by her mother, Ellen Devaney, and her siblings: Martin Devaney and his wife, Kim; Michael Devaney and his wife, Lisa; Veronica Ciancola; and Mary Devaney. She was predeceased by her brother-in-law, Robert Ciancola. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, David Van Buskirk, and was predeceased by her sister-in-law, Linda Van Buskirk, brother-in-law, William Van Buskirk and mother-in-law, Connie Van Buskirk.

Patricia was the devoted wife of Robert Van Buskirk, with whom she shared 44 years of marriage, partnership, and unwavering love. Together, they built a life rooted in family, compassion, and deep commitment to one another.

She was the proud and loving mother of two daughters, Jennifer Riley and Kelly Nemeth, whom she adored beyond words. Jennifer and her husband, Patrick Riley, are the parents of Patricia's cherished grandson, Callum. Kelly and her husband, Todd Nemeth, are the proud parents of Patricia's beloved grandchildren, Harper and Van. Being their "Grammie" was Patricia's greatest joy. She loved nothing more than spending time with her grandchildren—doting on them, laughing with them, and making them feel endlessly loved.

Patricia dedicated more than 30 years of her professional life to Norwalk Hospital, beginning her career in telemetry before transitioning into IT, where she retired after decades of dedicated service. Her commitment to caring for others extended far beyond her career; being a caretaker was at the very heart of who she was.

She will be remembered as a vibrant, warm, and joyful presence—someone who loved to laugh, made people feel seen and cared for, and had a remarkable ability to make others feel safe, loved, and at home. Her kindness, strength, and compassion touched countless lives, and her absence will be felt deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Patricia's legacy lives on through her family, especially her grandchildren who were the light of her life, and through the many people she cared for and supported throughout her lifetime.

Her family will receive friends on January 3rd from 1:00–2:30 PM at Magner Funeral Home, 12 Mott Avenue, Norwalk. A prayer service will follow at 2:30 PM, officiated by Rev. John Livingston.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Patricia's memory to the Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital.