Patricia Knight

Patricia Ann "Pat" Knight, 82, passed away on October 23, 2025, in Bloomington, Indiana, after a multiyear battle with Parkinson's and Lewy Body dementia. Born on July 20, 1943, in Goshen, Indiana, Pat was a lifelong Hoosier who lived a life marked by creativity, curiosity, and an unwavering sense of independence.

A graduate of Indiana University with a degree in Business Administration, Pat combined her practical education with a passion for the arts and the natural world. In retirement, she immersed herself in painting—working in watercolor, oil, and pastel—with a particular focus on animals and landscapes. Wolves, dogs, horses, and scenes from nature were her most frequent subjects. Drawing inspiration from her own photography—especially images captured during visits to Wolf Park in Battleground, Indiana—she produced hundreds of paintings and illustrations. She continued to refine her craft through classes at the Indianapolis Art Center well into her later years.

Pat's love for animals extended far beyond the canvas. She spent time at Wolf Park observing and photographing wolves and learning about their behavior. Her connection to canines was profound; she rescued numerous dogs and sponsored wolves feeling a deep kinship with them.

An avid reader with a sharp intellect, Pat gravitated toward history, political biographies, and historical fiction. Her bookshelf was as expansive as her passport—she traveled extensively; yet despite visiting many countries, she remained steadfastly loyal to American-style fast food during her adventures.

Music was another cornerstone of Pat's life. She played several instruments including the accordion, organ, and guitar. A devoted patron of concerts and musical theater productions, her final birthday celebration was attending a musical theater performance at Indiana University in Bloomington.

Pat's appreciation for art extended beyond creation to curation; she was a frequent visitor and donor to museums across the country. Among her favorites were Newfields and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art both in Indianapolis. She rarely missed Newfield's Penrod Arts Fair or the Eiteljog's Quest for the West.

Pat also enjoyed the strategic challenge of card games such as bridge and euchre. She could often be found at the card table engaged in lively games.

Patricia was dependable and generous—a steady presence in the lives of those who knew her. She took immense pride in her family: her daughter Aleisha Kropf; Aleisha's wife Stephanie Estell of Bloomington; and especially her granddaughters Natalia Kropf-Estell of Baltimore, Maryland, and Irene Kropf-Estell of Bloomington. Her pride in Natalia and Irene was boundless. Patricia is also survived by her cousins Kris Thacker (Walt) and Steve Shank (Beth Paul), along with their children, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

True to her practical nature and lifelong atheism, Patricia requested no funeral service. In accordance with her wishes, a small gathering for family and close friends will be held this coming spring at Wolf Park—a place that brought her peace and joy.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Patricia's name can be made to Wolf Park, Battleground, Indiana (765) 567-2265 / https://visitwolfpark.org/donate/.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Patricia Knight, please visit our flower store.