Patricia Hysko

Patricia Broders Hysko passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas.

Born on November 9, 1944, in Washington, D.C., Patricia was the daughter of John and Dorothy Broders. She graduated from Shenandoah Valley Academy, a boarding school in New Market, Virginia. Her compassion and desire to care for others led her to pursue a nursing degree at Emporia State College in Emporia, Kansas.

After graduating, Patricia made Wichita her home and embarked on a meaningful career in nursing. For 17 years, she worked alongside Dr. Art Fromm.

In 1974, through her mother's sponsorship, Patricia met Sam and Rose Kajese from Zimbabwe, while they attended Baker University in Kansas. Sam became like a brother. Their relationship has endured through the decades. In turn, Pat sponsored the Kajese children, Farayi, Vimbayi and Mutsa to attend the University of Kansas and Baker University, lovingly becoming "Aunty" Pat.

A life changing relationship came in 1995 when famed culinary figure, Julia Child, introduced Pat to Don Hysko at a National American Institute of Wine and Food (AIWF) board meeting in Denver. Their connection was immediate and the romance took off from there.

In 2001, Patricia and Don were married-first a ceremony in Wichita, then Key West, ending with a huge finalé celebration in Zimbabwe. Don relocated to Wichita in 2005 to begin the new chapter in their lives.

A gourmet cook and true Hostess Extraordinaire, Pat found joy in sharing meals and hospitality with others. Together with Don, they hosted countless dinner parties filled with laughter, delicious food, exceptional wine with heavy pours by Don, and an unmistakable sense of community that defined their home.

Pat was also a passionate supporter of the arts with Wichita Music Theater, Wichita Symphony Orchestra, Wichita Grand Opera, and the annual Midwest Winefest which reflected her deep appreciation for culture and performance.

Pat and Don's generosity extended beyond their social circles. They welcomed foreign students studying in the United States into their lives with open arms. Through their warmth and support, these students found comfort far from home.

Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved husband Don Hysko in 2023 and her parents John and Dorothy Broders.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and continue to inspire acts of generosity and kindness to others.

There will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with the Hysko Rainy Day Fund for International Students, P.O. Box 65, Baldwin City, KS 66006.