Patricia Jane Cosco Barille Killian, 80, of Madison, Wisconsin passed away peacefully at Agrace hospice care, with her two daughters at her side, on Saturday, August 22, 2020.
Patricia showed incredible courage and strength during the last 18 months battling late stage dementia. Those who know her best remember her sassy, vibrant, strong personality and lifelong commitment to self-care and wellness. Pat enjoyed swimming, following sports, walking, stukas (Lifetime movies), the art of the handwritten note, interesting conversation and getting absorbed in great books. She spread her joy of cooking, passion for travel, dedication to yoga and spirituality to everyone in her path.
She was a pioneer for women. In the 70’s and 80’s, Patricia was an outstanding sales executive, always leading the pack, in male dominated industries. In retirement, she continued her work in women’s circles. Pat, Patty, Patsy, Patty Jane, Nanny Pat, Pearl and Tooney Pops were some of the nick names she was fondly called by those who loved her. Nanny Pat’s grandchildren best remember her for long back scratches, chaperoning field trips and her knowledge of The Cubs, The Bears and The Fighting Irish!
Born on February 16, 1940 to the late Dr. Nicholas P. Cosco and Mary Marjorie Purcell in Middletown, New York. Pat graduated from Middletown High school followed by Saint Elizabeth College in Morristown, New Jersey.
Upon graduation she married Arthur F. Barille, her high school sweetheart. They met at Camp Saint Joseph’s in Forestburg, New York where they started as young campers and became counselors “running the camp.” Arthur is the Father of their three children.
Formerly of Middletown, New York, Erlangen & Uttenreuth, Germany, New Rochelle, New York, Floral Park, New York, Barrington, Illinois, Elburn, Illinois and Madison, Wisconsin.
Married to James L Killian for 22 years, they had a deep love for each other and their families.
Mother of Christopher Barille, Maura (Mike) Crooks and Noelle Barille.
Stepmother to, Michael (Janese) Killian, Brian (Jacqueline) Killian, Ann (Denis) McCarthy, Cullen(Gail Duffley) Killian, Barry Killian, Sharon(Barry) Walker, Colleen(David) Curran.
Dearest Nanny Pat to 23 grandchildren and Great grandmother to 9.
Cherished sister of Frederick (Kathleen) Cosco, David (Nancy ) Cosco. The late Nicholas Cosco (Arielle) and Mike (Linda) Cosco. She was a fond Aunt, Cousin, friend and mentor to many.
In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be donated to Agrace.
You may visit agrace.org/donate, call (800)553-4289, or send a check to the Agrace Foundation,
5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison , WI 53711.
All gifts support their nonprofit, compassionate care.
Pat’s wishes are to have a celebration of life. At a later date, family will gather in Middletown, New York.