Patricia A. Zoretic

Patricia Ann Zoretic, lifelong resident of Hibbing, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 22, 2025, at Hillcrest Nashwauk at the age of 91. She was born on March 23, 1934, to James and Irma (Wood) Sullivan, the first of three daughters.

As a teenager, Pat worked at the Sweet Shop after school in downtown Hibbing. At her cousin’s wedding, she met the love of her life, Vincent Zoretic. Pat and Vince married on August 20, 1954, at Blessed Sacrament Church. Three years later, they welcomed their son James Michael.

At a young age, Patricia experienced the tragic loss of her husband and, as a single mother, raised her son while working full time. Throughout her career, she worked for Borchert-Ingersoll, Northern Mining, and retired from BARR Engineering in 1999 at the age of 65. Pat was an active member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Hibbing. She loved to sing and used her talents as a member of the church choir for many years. Pat was also a member of her local sewing club, and she volunteered her time at the Funeral Ladies Guild, PTA, and the Fairview Range Hospital Gift Nook. She enjoyed browsing at craft fairs, hosting Summertime get-togethers in her screened garage, coffee with neighbors, and treasured family gatherings. Pat was a wonderful cook and hostess. Her generosity of time and talent knew no bounds.

Patricia is survived by her son, James M. (Janet) Zoretic, Overland Park, KS; sister, Mary Jo Sullivan, Hibbing, MN; two loving grandchildren, Sarah (Viraj Desai) Zoretic, and Katharyn (Charles) German, both of Dallas, TX; three beloved great-grandchildren, Charles, James, and George, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Vincent Zoretic, parents, James and Irma, sister, Kathleen Lessman, and brother-in-law, Gary Lessman.

Funeral services for Pat will be held at 11:00 am, Monday, September 29, 2025, at the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Hibbing. The Rev. Fr. Bill Skarich will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial. Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral Mass at the church on Monday. Interment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery of Hibbing. Honorary pallbearers are Brian Kruchoski, Bob Kimmes, Tim Lessman, Mike Lessman, Charlie Farha, and Tim Fausnight.

Arrangements are with the Dougherty Funeral Home of Hibbing.