Patricia "Pat" Kay Eilert, age 69, Branson, Missouri

Patricia "Pat" Kay Eilert, a beacon of generous creativity and passionate community service, passed away on September 4, 2023, in Branson, MO. Born to Kenneth Sparks Sr. and Bernice Sparks on November 10, 1953, in Columbia, MO, Pat spent her formative years absorbing the values of love, strength, and perseverance that would later shape her life journey.

Pat met and married David Eilert in Columbia, MO. Together, they raised their daughters, Tina and Shawnda, on their farm in Kansas. Pat also began the Sugar Shack while living in Kansas, a quaint spice shop that she relocated to Branson in 1988 when she and David moved to the area.

Pat’s entrepreneurial spirit extended into Branson's local businesses as well. She operated American Pride Tours for 20 years and was an active member of the Tour Guide Association. Her compassion and generosity drove her to establish two non-profit organizations. Dress A Living Doll provided area children in need with clothing and special handmade items. Bundles of Joy blessed new mothers with gift baskets containing essential baby supplies along with handmade quilts and afghans.

Pat enjoyed her hobbies of crafting, painting, sewing, and bowling at the local Dogwood Lanes. She participated as a vendor in numerous craft shows. Known for her handmade quilts and afghans, she would give them to veterans at the veteran’s home. Pat was fervently patriotic and active in the DAV Auxiliary.

Pat is survived by her daughters, Tina Ross (Pete) of Eureka Springs, AR and Shawnda Eilert of Nickerson, KS; her brother, Kenny Sparks (Juanita) of Holts Summit, MO; her sister, Lesa Riley (Mitch) of Columbia, MO; her grandchildren, Kassandra Groll (Jake), Michiel Weisner, Christopher Weisner, and Katelyn Ross (Oz); her precious great-grandchildren, Natalia, Kaliah, and soon to be born, baby Ellie. Pat is also survived by her close friend, Jack Bare of Branson. Pat was preceded in death by her husband, David, her parents, and a sister.

Patricia Kay Eilert's character was marked by her generous nature, creative spirit, and passionate demeanor. She will be profoundly missed but remembered in every act of determination, kindness and creativity.

Services will be Wednesday, September 13, 2023 in Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory, Branson. Visitation will begin at 2:30 PM with funeral services following at 4:00 PM.  Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery, Beloit, Kansas on Friday, September 15, 2023 at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Pat’s memory are requested to the DAV Auxiliary, 615 Parnell Dr., Branson, MO 65616.

Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home and Crematory

1638 East State Highway 76

Branson, Missouri 65616

Telephone – 417-334-3670

Fax – 417-336-3670