Patricia Ann Castilow Vitez
Uniontown
Patricia Ann Castilow Vitez, aka Patti, Miss Patti, Mom and Momom, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, passed over peacefully Friday, January 23, 2026, in the WVU Uniontown Hospital surrounded by her family, who were telling stories of days gone by and plans of tomorrow.
She was preceded in death by her doting husband of 57 years, Carroll Vitez, who met her in Heaven with an empty coffee cup asking what’s for dinner. Patti’s eternal journey will start at Heaven’s gate, where, in addition to her husband, she was greeted by many who went before her. Doug Proug and Mark Orgovan lead the way to her parents, Mildred “Mid” and John “Newt” Castilow; her sister, Marla Kahn, who was her longtime partner in crime and Scrabble opponent; her brother, Richard Castilow, with sand on his toes and a sunburned nose; and her best dog, Cody, was there to finally see her. Other in-laws and friends are there waiting to show her around.
Patti was a woman of many facets-selfless, stubborn, kind, adventurous, unapologetic, and delightfully wild. Patti lived boldly and fearlessly, never afraid to try something new. Her spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her.
Not only did she pave the way for women in EMS by working for 15 years serving the residents of Fayette County as one of the first paid paramedics at Uniontown Fireman’s Ambulance Service, she set a precedence for all of EMS starting at Garrett County Rescue Squad that lead to many calls on the South Union Ambulance Service. Her life’s work was dedicated to the happiness and well-being of her family as a loving wife and homemaker. After her many hours on the ambulance and many fire department dinners, where every pot and pan was used, her retirement was filled with caring for, playing with, teaching and loving her kids and her grandkids with fu-fu galore! In her later years, both she and Carroll became active members of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. Patti’s spirit, love, and adventurous heart will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
Left to thrive in her light are her children, Jeff Vitez (Robinette), JoDee Proud (Joe Volcheck and his daughter, Brendie Volcheck); and her cherished grandchildren, Jacob Proud (Emily), Allyson Carlson (Andrew), and Dalton Vitez.
Miss Patti’s family would like to thank Jamie Spooner and Terra Ritz for being everything we couldn’t. It takes a village to handle a Momom!
A celebration of Patti’s life will be held with her family and friends in the SHELL FUNERAL HOME, INC., 164 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue, Uniontown, from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, January 29. A memorial service will follow, with Pastor Jim Engel officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express their sympathy to consider making a donation to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 121 Walnut Hill Road, Uniontown, PA 15401; Fayette Friends of Animals, P.O. Box 1282, Uniontown, PA 15401; or Keeping the Faith Animal Shelter, 1198 Connellsville Road, Lemont Furnace, PA 15456.