Patricia A. Shoaf

Patricia Ann "Pat" (Toland) Shoaf, 92, of Shadyside and Ellwood City, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and her pastor, on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at UPMC Shadyside Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of devotion to family, community, and professional excellence. Born October 2, 1933, she was the daughter of Howard Ashley Toland (1899–1968) and Enger Elizabeth (Sorenson) Toland (1907–1995), who married in 1927. Pat was raised in a close-knit home alongside her beloved brothers, Donald A. "Don" Toland (1928–1993) and Larry K. Toland (1935–2012), who always made her laugh. She graduated from Lincoln High School (Ellwood City, PA) in 1951. Shortly after graduation, Pat embarked on an extensive career reflecting her strong work ethic and passion for helping others. From 1951–1960, she worked at Ellwood City Forge, forming lifelong friendships—including with Bob Barensfeld—and establishing a foundation of dedication that defined her professional life. In 1963, she joined Iron and Wire, where her leadership earned her the role of company officer. She also applied her meticulous eye to typesetting and publishing at the Ellwood Ledger and TV Guide. Eager to serve her community, Pat became Executive Director of the Lawrence County Rape Abuse Center, championing services for survivors of sexual violence. She later served as a bookkeeper at Vereb Funeral Home in New Castle and testified as a witness in U.S. v. Vereb (Patrick R.), a Medicare fraud case—demonstrating her integrity. She continued blending professional skill with charity at the City Rescue Mission in New Castle, where she advanced from bookkeeper to Development Director, raising nearly $1.5 million annually; she served in similar roles with the Salvation Army. At Bob Barensfeld's request, she became Executive Director of the Ellwood City Area Historical Society, helping to preserve the community's heritage. She also worked the Passavant switchboard in Zelienople, offering her friendly voice to those seeking assistance. In her personal life, she loved to laugh, cherished her faith, and enjoyed card games with friends. In her teens, she bought a convertible and often drove to Pittsburgh to dance at venues like Webster Hall. She attended services at Providence Baptist Church, First Congregational Church, and Rose Point Reformed Presbyterian Church. Pat was first engaged to Jim T. McDaniel of Rocky River, Ohio (U.S. Navy, Corpus Christi, Texas). She then met and married Ronald "Ron" Laverne Shoaf (1929–1995) in 1955. Together they raised two children: Karen "Kacee" Elizabeth Guy (1960–2022) and Eric Ronald Shoaf (1962–2023). The proud matriarch of her family, Pat always backed her children—and she freely gave love and financial support when both faced terminal illness. She championed her grandchildren, fighting for their custody with attorneys and DA contacts from her advocacy years, raising them herself from early childhood and helping them apply to colleges. In her final years, Pat moved close to her grandson Rick Cancelliere in Shadyside, both determined to help her remain independent even as a quadriplegic. When care needs grew complex, family arranged safe housing, 24/7 caregivers, daily nurse visits, and medical support so she could remain at home. Pat's simple joys never changed: vanilla sweets, the love of a dog, and daily visits—with coffee and gentle kisses from the family dog, Lola—that let her live with comfort, dignity, and independence until the end. Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ronald; her daughter, Karen; her son, Eric; and her brothers, Donald and Larry. She is survived by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren (as listed in her children's obituaries), along with extended family and dear friends who will forever remember her compassion, generosity, and unwavering dedication to serving others. Luncheon: At Pat's request, the family will host a luncheon at Rose Point Reformed Presbyterian Church on Thursday, January 29, 12:30–2:30 pm to celebrate her life. (Please note: dining room access by stairs.) In lieu of flowers, she requested contributions to the college fund she started for her great-granddaughter, care of "Liana Cancelliere-Letronne." Please RSVP by text or voicemail to 412-467-6070 by Wednesday at 4:00 pm. Professional services trusted to D'ALESSANDRO FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY LTD., Lawrenceville. www.dalessandroltd.com.

Patricia A. Shoaf

October 2, 1933 - January 24, 2026