From the Eau
Claire
Leader-Telegram
Patricia
Drabant
Patricia Drabant passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Friday
10/23/2020, after a courageous and lengthy battle with cancer. Aunt Pat
was born on April 19th, 1941 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where she was the
Valedictorian of her Class at Eau Claire Memorial in 1959. She went on
to attend Ripon College, and began her professional career at Dow
Chemical in Colorado. During this time, she met the love of her life,
Evert Bancker, who owned a Classical Radio Station, and Record Store.
They both shared the love of travel and adventure, driving to Mexico
each year over the Thanksgiving break and living in The South of France,
where they lived throughout the Sixties and Seventies.
They returned to the United States in the early 80's, settling in Fort
Lauderdale, and then Pat moved on to Central Florida. Pat enjoyed a
rewarding career in the legal department at Walt Disney World, and was a
key player in managing Disney's real estate, expansion, infrastructure,
and the launch of ESPN Wide World Of Sports. Speaking fluent French, she
was also invited to meetings in Quebec, to translate and provide
guidance for the launch of Disney Land in Paris France in 1992. After a
successful 20 year career at Disney World, Pat retired in 2010. Up until
recently, Pat enjoyed daily walks in Celebration, with her faithful
companion, her Poodle, Remy Martin.
Pat was an intellect, with a sharp wit, keen sense of humor, and an
endless passion for problem solving. She enjoyed a nice glass of
Chardonnay, leisurely meals with friends and family, and good
conversation. She is preceded in death by her Parents, Arthur & Lucille
Drabant, and her Husband, Evert Bancker. She is survived by her Brother
and Sister In-Law Thomas and Cynthia Drabant, Cousin Michael Warlam and
partner Steven Heck, Her Niece and Husband Christine and Vincent
Edlebeck, and two Great Nephews, Jacob and Michael Edlebeck.
In lieu of flowers and cards, Pat's wish is that you vote in the
upcoming election, and also support The First Friday Kids Support Group,
which provides weekend meals for under-privileged Children in Polk
County.
A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.