Patricia A. Bishop

Patricia Bishop, a beloved friend, wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 77 in the early evening hours of February 20, 2025. She was blessed to pass peacefully, at home, surrounded by her children and her loving husband, Gary. Their presence is a testament to the love and warmth that surrounded her throughout her life. 

Born Patricia Ranker to Robert and Phyllis (Powell) Ranker, her journey through life began on October 29, 1947, and was marked by an unwavering commitment to the service of others, especially children, leaving a mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Married in 1970, Pat met her would-be husband, Gary, on a blind date set up by a mutual friend 2 years prior. They fell in love and knew they both shared a desire for family and decided to start their own. Gary likes to joke, "he just went for the meatloaf and left with the love of his life". Gary devoted his life to loving her. The two were each other's best friend, lifelong companion, and soul mate.

Pat devoted her nurturing spirit to the love and protection of children. With her desire to serve, she stood selflessly in place as a temporary mother by becoming a foster parent for over 40 children. Through the years, she also would open her home and her heart to another four children via the foreign exchange student program. Her dedication to providing love and care extended even beyond that, as she would go on to adopt a total of seven children. Becoming a shining example of motherhood and a lighthouse in the dark for countless children.

Pat was a family-oriented woman who spent most of her life thinking about others. She always surrounded herself with her family, where she felt most comfortable and loved. She enjoyed spending time with her husband, her children, and her grandchildren and made them and priority in her life. Even with 7 children, she always loved them unconditionally and equally. She especially enjoyed when they gave her grandchildren. They brought so much joy to her in her later years of life.

Alongside spending time with family and friends, some of her hobbies included playing bingo, Skip-Bo, or any game where she could laugh. She also enjoyed puzzles, word searches, and baking.

Pat is survived by her husband, Gary Bishop; brother, Ronald (Kim) Ranker, 7 children, Rick (Alicia) Bishop, Angela (Trent) Raynes, Jason (Christina) Bishop, Timothy Bishop, Zach (Courtney) Bishop, Lauren (Colin) Bishop, Andrew Bishop, 12 grandchildren: J, Annie, Jarrett, Emma, Meghan, Lyla, Sylas, Fern, William, Emily, Madelynn, and Claire; many nieces and nephews, countless friends and her adored dog, Scooby.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Phyllis (Powell) Ranker and her younger brother, Bobby.

Friends may call Tuesday, February 25 from 5-8pm at Wise Funeral Home, 129 W Warren St, Bucyrus, OH 44820. Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, February 26th at 11am at Holy Trinity Catholic Church 760 Tiffin St, Bucyrus, OH 44820 with Fr. Paul Fahrbach officiating.

If desired, donations can be made payable to Crawford County Right to Life or to Holy Trinity Church and these gifts will be accepted at the funeral home or at the church on the morning of her services. Expressions of sympathy are encouraged to be shared on her guestbook page at www.wisefuneral.com.