Patricia J. Lewis Obituary, Death – PATRICIA J. LEWIS (nee Cuccillato) age 73, beloved wife of the late Robert “Bob”; loving mother of Tiffany Ottaway (husband Matt) and Tristan Lewis (wife Caroline); devoted grandmother of Liam and Charlotte Ottaway and Emma, Clint, and Flynn Lewis; cherished daughter of the late Gaspard and Monique (nee Septier) Cuccillato; dearest sister of Anne Marie, Marguerite, Emmanuel and Catherine Cuccillato; dear sister-in-law, aunt, great-aunt and friend of many.Patricia was born in Aix-les-Bains, France on May 17, 1949. With a French mother and an Italian father, who met during the war and settled in France, Patricia was exposed to different languages and cultures at an early age.
At the age of 18, she decided to cross the Atlantic and au pair for an American family in Princeton, NJ. This would turn out to be the most defining decision of her life. She spent a year with her “American Family” as she called them and headed back to France. But America just kept calling, and she returned the following summer to visit her family that had since moved to Youngstown, Ohio. While visiting, she was set up on a blind date with Bob Lewis, and one of the most beautiful love stories ensued. They were married in France several months later and settled in Warren, Ohio.
Patricia loved the States but she could not be more “French.” She had a chic French style and was always dressed to kill. It was very important to her that her kids be immersed in French culture – spending summers in France and learning all of the secret family recipes! She loved to travel and meet new people. Patricia had friends from all over the world, and she made sure to always stay in touch despite the distance.
Her family was everything to her. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. “Mimimi” to her five grandchildren, she loved spoiling them with affection and gifts. Patricia was born to be a mom – she taught her children about the importance of home, history, family and tradition. Those who knew her well can find peace with her passing knowing that she is now reunited with her “American Prince” in eternal life. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Patricia to Cleveland Institute of Music ATTN: