For those who’ve ever wondered what a true, living, breathing, angel would look like on Earth, they need look no further than Patsy Lynn Accristo. One of four sisters born to Eugene & Geraldine Halke, Pat soon made it clear that she was not like the others. Though largely a modest and reserved girl, her undeniable qualities of kindness, compassion, and organization were second to none. Many would say that Pat possessed an uncanny ability to put you at ease, but also held a sharp, and creatively focused mind that could run any company; big or small. She could light-up a room with just one smile, decorate it beautifully, and always keep it in showroom condition. Her chance encounter to the man who would become her husband, Antoine (Tony) Accristo, was so seemingly random; it almost didn’t happen.
As he would tell the story, Tony would notice Pat’s shoes one morning while he was vacuuming his laundromat business, and remembered something similar; from his high-school years. She was reading a book, and after a bit of small talk, and a few months later, they’d carry on a romance, commitment, and dedication to each other; that would last for 40+ years. A High School and Community College graduate, Pat was unlike any who came before her; and any that would come after. Her only son, Nick Accristo, was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; in December 1981.
After retiring from her partnership in the laundromat business with her husband, she would move with them to Helena, Montana in 1991; to enjoy the peace and serenity of Big Sky Country. As the years passed, she would see her son slowly grow up, graduate from high school and college, and even start his own business. Despite the distance, she stayed in regular contact with her sisters back east; as they lovingly developed a lifelong friendship. She would also converse with, and send beautiful hand-written cards to many of her other step-children, including: Marc Accristo, Leslie Vinson, and Claire Benesh.
She loved to sew fabrics, cook delicious meals, and encourage others to become their very best; by using their talents to better the world. She was an avid gardener, lover of beautiful flowers, and had a natural talent for truly being able to do it all. She loved Harrison Ford from the Indiana Jones movies, Tom Selleck from Magnum P.I., Angela Lansbury from Murder She Wrote, and many other classic TV programs, including: Frasier, Winnie the Pooh, and The Golden Girls. She also loved game shows, vintage American cinema, and so much more.
Though often quiet, and a bit shy at times, Pat’s ability to bring about the best in people was amazing; and equally true for those lucky enough to have known her. She is survived by her sisters: Kitty and Diane; as well as her son Nick. She will be dearly missed by those fortunate enough to have known her, and the countless others; whom truly wished they had.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
1:00 pm
Friday June 26, 2020
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena , Montana 59601
Graveside Service
Following the Memorial Service
Friday June 26, 2020
Montana State Veterans Cemetry
Heros Lane
Helena , Montana 59602
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Thérèse depontbriand says
Chère nicolas
Orlando tiny et moi même te présentent leurs sincères condoléances et ne t oublient pas dans leur prière
Marc Accristo says
Pat was my stepmother and the best mom a son could ask for. She filled our home with joy, with music and with love. She made holidays special and was a talented homemaker. Pat loved her family and was a loving wife to my father. He would often say he didn’t deserve such a beautiful lady. I am a better person because Pat was my mother. I will treasure her memory may she rest in the house of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Marc Antoine Accristo
Teddy J ACCRISTO says
Dear Nick, we are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of your mother. Although we only knew Patsy for a short time, we will always remember her as a sweet kind and humble soul. No words can adequately describe how wonderful she made everyone that surrounded her feel. Please accept our sincere condolences and know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time in your life. May she rest in peace along side your dad and take comfort in knowing that both are smiling and looking down on us.
Claire Accristo Benesh says
This truly describes my step-mother, Pat Accristo:
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
Pat was a soft-spoken, gentle soul who deeply loved my father, Papa, her son, Nicholas, and my brother, Marc, and sister, Leslie.She lovingly took the place of ‘mother’ in their lives and did her best to love them and be their friend. I have never seen a wife stand with, by and alongside her husband like Pat did with Papa.They were both blessed to have each other. And I was blessed to have her as a friend.
She loved our Lord and Savior,Jesus Christ, and is now rejoicing with Him.
Her hope for every one was just to ‘be happy’.
She will be deeply missed by the many lives she touched.
Ariane Accristo says
My deepest condolences to Nike and family
Wish I could of met my aunt.
❤
May she rest in peace ❤
Larry Hall Family says
Our sympathy to all the family of Pat’s. She was such a special person, so kind and loving. Our prayers and thoughts go out to all the family.
Shiloh Johnson says
Pat was a beautiful person. She showed love and kindness to everyone. I am grateful for the time we spent together during summer days when I was younger. She was patient with me as I helped in the kitchen and always made me feel like I was contributing. Nick, I am truly sorry for your loss. Your mom was a very special person.
Michael Stevenson says
Proverbs 31 tells of a woman of Valor. She spreads out her palm to the poor and extends her hands to the destitute. She fears not snow for her household, for her entire household is clothed with scarlet wool. Pat gave to the destitute and homeless. She never wanted anyone to know of her generosity. She was a eishet chayil.
Similarly, the eishet chayil faces changes and transitions, peaks and valleys, twists and turns. She balances commitments and responsibilities in the home, community and workplace. But through all the irritants, challenges and imperfections of life, the eishet chayil manages to develop her relationship with G‑d, for she knows it is He who sustains her throughout the ebbs and flows. Through layer upon layer of strength, courage, persistence, wisdom and valor, she transforms herself into a pearl. And she is radiant.
A woman of valor, who can find? Far beyond pearls is her value. Her husband’s heart trusts in her, and he shall lack no fortune. Nick and Antonio’s children were indeed fortunate to have a mother like her. I shall miss her as she allowed me to get to know her and experience her hospitality and friendship. My world is a bit darker without her. Pat, I know Nita and Antonio greeted you at Heaven”s gate, enjoy the rest you so much do deserve. Her life is too great to express in these few words. I shall miss your spirit and your caring.
Her sisters Diane and Kitty says
Pat was so special to so many people–a dedicated wife, a loving mother, a good friend, a generous and giving person, and to us, our wonderful, selfless, loving sister.
She would always ask if we needed anything when we’d talk on the phone and would send us little gifts–a special cup with sparkles for Diane, a pretty navy blue watch for Kitty, and a fancy cook’s apron for Ralph that has his name on it! That’s because the last time we saw Pat, Ralph made his famous grilled cheese sandwiches for her–which she loved. And every couple weeks, like clockwork, she would send 5 or 6 bags of doggie treats for Buddy and Brandy–a kind we couldn’t get here in Pennsylvania. She loved the doggies.
The hardest part of losing Pat was that we didn’t get a chance to say goodbye. She was gone in a minute. We hope and pray she’s happy in Heaven surrounded by those she loved and who loved her. I’m sure Tony and Nita were waiting for her. We love you and miss you, Pat.
Diane and Kitty
Judy and Chris Carrigan says
Nick, Chris and I are so sad to hear about Pat’s passing. What a sweet woman who was always so friendly to us on Priest Pass. I am sure she is with your Dad right now. But we are so sorry for you to lose so much in such a short time. Are thoughts are with you. May God bless Pat and comfort you and your family.
Abdullah AlMatrook says
Hi Nick,
My condolences to you and your family for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your mother sounded like an amazing person.
Kind regards
Abdullah Almatrook