Lillian Patricia Liljegren

Lillian Patricia "Patti" Liljegren (née Horan), 67, of Vermilion, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Friday, September 20, 2024, following a sudden illness.

Born on July 5, 1957, in Lakewood, Ohio, Patti moved to Vermilion 52 years ago, where she spent the majority of her life building deep connections and cherished memories.

A proud graduate of Vermilion High School, Patti went on to study Botany at Kent State University. Her time at Kent was marked by a blend of hard work, joy, and countless stories that reflected her ability to balance her studies, work, and fun.

Patti blazed trails in her professional life, entering the male-dominated world of construction equipment sales. She proved herself a force to be reckoned with, visiting job sites with a hard hat and showcasing her deep expertise in heavy equipment. Patti’s distinguished career included tenures at Ross Equipment/United Rentals, Atlas Copco, Hyundai Construction, and most recently, as a National Account Sales Manager for Hitachi Construction. One of her proudest achievements was earning her Lean Six Sigma Black Belt from Villanova University.

She was a member of St. Mary Parish in Vermilion, Vermilion Boat Club, US Power Squadron, and the National Association of Professional Women (recently being inducted into the NAPW's Women of the Year Circle).  Patti was also an avid scuba diver and a proud member of MAST (Maritime Archaeological Survey Team), LEWD (Lake Erie Wreck Divers), and BAD (Bay Area Divers). Her love for animals was boundless, especially for her beloved pets-Danny, Duncan, Nevan, Murphy, and Pearl.

Patti's joy for life was expressed through her love of dancing, music, sailing, playing pool, ice hockey, and sharing pizza with friends. She had a rare gift for making friends everywhere she went, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Her passion for music was a constant throughout her life, spanning from rock 'n' roll to indie artists. Patti channeled this love into becoming a radio host for Rock 93X, eventually launching her own station, Rock Capital Radio.

Patti is survived by her brother, Robert "RJ" J. Horan of Vermilion, her niece, Sarah Horan, and her companion, Mike Sroka of North Olmsted. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert J. and Mary E. (née Ralph) Horan, and her husband, David Beckley Liljegren.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025 at 12 noon at Maple Grove Cemetery followed by a Celebration of life at 2 pm at the Pavilion at Romps Dairy Dock.

In lieu of flowers, the family request contributions made  to a charity of the donor's choice.

Condolences can be shared online at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.