Patricia Kathleen Yorston

Patricia Kathleen Yorston (née Maguire)
November 19, 1939 - September 21, 2026

Patricia Kathleen Yorston, known to family and friends as Pat, passed away on September 21, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on November 19, 1939, she lived a life defined by her deep commitment to education, her unwavering support for family, and a warm spirit that touched everyone around her.

Pat graduated from Edison High School and earned a teaching degree from the University of Minnesota. She became one of the earliest advocates for special education in Minnesota, long before the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was adopted. She developed and ran the first special education classroom located within a regular elementary school in Minnesota, teaching the first students in the program and creating a nurturing, inclusive environment for the children who attended. Even after marrying Richard J. Yorston and starting a family, she continued to volunteer in special education classrooms for many years. Her passion for learning never faded; almost any moment could become a "teaching moment" with her children and grandchildren.

A lifetime Girl Scout, Pat proudly displayed her sash and the many badges she had earned. She also served as a leader for a local Brownies group, sharing the values of service, friendship, and personal growth with a new generation. Her volunteer spirit carried far beyond the classroom: she ran the PTA, served on several school committees, supported special education programs, and gave her time at church and in the community. She was a leader, an organizer, and an active doer.

Pat supported her children and grandchildren in all their endeavors-and loved to play card games with the family, do jigsaw puzzles, and various board games - making each child feel special and loved.

Sanibel Island, Florida, held a very special place in her heart. From the time her children were young through introducing her grandchildren to its magic, it remained her peaceful refuge and place of connection. Over the years she welcomed extended family, her Bridge group, and friends there, and many happy memories made on Sanibel will remain in the hearts of all who shared them with her.

Pat and Richard built their dream house on Snail Lake in Shoreview, Minnesota, where many celebrations and treasured memories were made.

Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Richard J. Yorston; her son, Thomas Yorston; and her brother, Daniel Maguire. She is survived by her children, Lynne McDowall (Steve), Colleen Smetana (Steve), and Paul Yorston; her grandchildren, Daniel Smetana (Rachel), Nicholas Smetana (Ashley), and Catherine Smetana; and her brother, Richard Maguire (Jan).

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity or nonprofit of your choice. An intimate celebration of her life will be held in the near future.

Her smile, laughter, stories, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.