Patricia Joan Connell

Born to Leonard Emedio Serravo and Violet Domenica Serravo, Patty was a proud Colorado native with deep roots in Welby. She attended Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary School and graduated from Mount Carmel High School. A lifelong learner, she later attended Regis College, Metro State College, and the University of Colorado Denver, earning a B.A. in Communications (1991), a B.A. in Speech Communication (1993), and a Master of Public Administration in 1999.

From 1970 to 1978, she worked for Mountain Bell Telephone at the Federal and 52nd location, where she brought her strong work ethic and even stronger opinions to every shift.

But it was outside the office—on foot or at the ballot box—where Patty truly shined. Patty laced up her first pair of running shoes in 1995 and never looked back. She proudly ran the Bolder Boulder 10K every year until 2020, completed seven marathons (including San Francisco, San Diego, New York, Chicago, and three Marine Corps Marathons), two Georgetown to Idaho Springs Half Marathons, and countless local 5Ks around Denver, Arvada, Wheat Ridge, and Westminster—including annual appearances at the Denver Turkey Trot. Her running shoes got more mileage than most used cars, and she wore each pair like a badge of honor.

Her greatest race, however, was her marathon in public service. Patty served on the City of Arvada’s Planning Commission for 10 years, where her voice and vision helped shape the community she loved. She was a regular at local events—from the Irish Festival and Scarecrow Design Contest to the Farmers Market—always present, always involved, and always up for a conversation about city improvements (or a good baked good).

She was also a tireless champion of democracy. A lifelong and loudly proud Democrat, Patty never missed an election and spent decades volunteering at phone banks, handing out flyers, knocking on doors, and writing postcards. She attended rallies, conventions, and demonstrations like it was her cardio (which, technically, it often was). If there was a cause worth fighting for, Patty was already on the front lines—stylish walking shoes and all.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Leonard and Violet Serravo. She is survived by her devoted daughter Gina, and husband David, who were both by her side as she crossed her final finish line.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Patty’s legacy by donating your time or resources to Community Table in Arvada (8555 W. 57th Ave.)—or by simply showing up for your community, just like she did.