Patricia Ann (Pavlov) Leins

Patricia Ann Leins (Pavlov), 64, of Superior, CO., formerly of Smiths Creek, died March 24, 2018 surrounded by her family. She waged one unbelievable fight for 28 years against her Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She was the first person in Texas to have an experimental bone marrow transplant to combat the autoimmune disease. She never gave up. When most people would have been defeated, she said, “Things could always be worse.” And “What am I able to do now?”

Pat was born June 15, 1953 to the late John and late Theresa (Grass) Pavlov in St. Clair, Mi. Pat graduated from Marysville High School in 1971. She attended the Nursing Program at SCCCC and earned her Master’s degree in Nursing from St. Louis University.

While in St. Louis, she met the love of her life, Dr. Edward Leins. They were married on May 9, 1987. They moved to Lubbock, Texas to start their medical careers.

Pat was an Oncology Nurse Coordinator at Mercy Hospital in Port Huron, Mi. for 10 years. She gave her patients outstanding care, compassion, and dignity as they approached their last days. She taught future nurses at Texas Tech University as an instructor. She became Clinical Director at St. Mary’s Hospital before MS brought her exemplary career to its short end.

In July of 2017, Pat and Ed moved to Superior, CO to live with their family. Pat truly enjoyed her grandchildren - Trisha (Patty Cakes), EJ (Edward Joseph), Anthony (Ace) and Miranda. She loved to hear about their sporting adventures. They were a great comfort to her. Pat’s career inspired her daughter-in-law (Patricia) to become a nurse, also. Kane, her son, has become a great, young man, father and husband due to Pat’s love and guidance.

Pat loved to listen to her Tigers; Texas Tech sport teams; books on tape, Young and the Restless; and her music especially Motown and the Bee Gees. MS took away her vision; however, she was still able to” see” people and their goodness, even when others couldn’t. She was never quick to judge or dismiss someone with a differing opinion. She also had style, grace and a beautiful aura around her.

On April 6, 2018 a funeral was held for Pat in Denver. She is buried in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Pat is survived by her loving and dedicated husband, Ed; son, Kane (Patricia) Leins; four grandchildren; siblings, John H. Pavlov; Joseph (Marilynn) Pavlov; Teri (Steve) Meier; Eileen (Kirk) Smith; many nephews, nieces, cousins, aunts, uncles, and many dear friends.

A Celebration of Pat’s Life is being held on June 15, 2018 at the McGivney Banquet Center - Knights of Columbus Hall from 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm. A brief prayer service will be held at 7:00 pm.

Donations can be made to South Plains Food Bank, 5605 MLK Blvd., Lubbock, TX 79404 (198)