Patricia Keating, 67, Passes Away in Fredonia

Longtime business owner and Frito-Lay sales rep remembered for her love of the beach and Notre Dame

Mar. 30, 2026 at 12:18am

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A dreamy, out-of-focus photograph in shades of orange, pink, and blue depicting a serene beach scene with palm trees and a hazy horizon, conceptually representing the peaceful yet bittersweet mood of a community remembering a beloved local resident.The passing of Patricia Keating, a lifelong beach lover and Notre Dame devotee, marks the end of an era for her Midwest community.Hobart Today

Patricia Ellen Keating, a 67-year-old resident of Fredonia, Kentucky, passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at her home. Born in Gary, Indiana in 1958, Keating was raised in Hobart and later co-owned 7/11 stores with her husband Kevin before working in sales at Frito-Lay. After Kevin's passing, Keating returned to Indiana and then relocated to Fredonia, where she remained until her death.

Why it matters

Keating's life story reflects the changing economic and social landscape of the Midwest over the past several decades, from small-town business ownership to corporate sales roles. Her passing marks the end of an era for her family and community.

The details

Keating was born to Eugene Franklin 'Frankie' and Patricia Jane Smith in Gary, Indiana in 1958. She was raised in Hobart, where she graduated high school in 1977 and was a member of the basketball team. Keating and her husband Kevin later owned and operated 7/11 stores in the area before relocating to Clarkston, Michigan for around 15 years. During that time, Keating built a career in sales with Frito-Lay. After Kevin's passing, Keating returned to Portage, Indiana and then moved to Fredonia, Kentucky following the loss of her parents. Keating had a deep love for the beach and time spent in Florida, enjoyed reading and watching movies, and was a devoted Notre Dame fan.

  • Keating was born on October 8, 1958 in Gary, Indiana.
  • Keating graduated from Hobart High School in 1977.
  • Keating and her husband Kevin owned 7/11 stores in the area before relocating to Clarkston, Michigan around 15 years ago.
  • Keating worked in sales at Frito-Lay during her time in Clarkston.
  • Keating passed away on March 28, 2026 at her home in Fredonia, Kentucky.

The players

Patricia Ellen Keating

A 67-year-old resident of Fredonia, Kentucky who passed away on March 28, 2026. Keating was born in Gary, Indiana in 1958, was raised in Hobart, and later co-owned 7/11 stores with her husband Kevin before working in sales at Frito-Lay.

Eugene Franklin 'Frankie' Smith

Keating's late father.

Patricia Jane Smith

Keating's late mother.

Kevin C. Keating

Keating's late husband, with whom she co-owned 7/11 stores before his passing.

Frankie Smith, Jr.

One of Keating's three brothers.

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The takeaway

Keating's life story reflects the changing economic and social landscape of the Midwest over the past several decades, from small-town business ownership to corporate sales roles. Her passing marks the end of an era for her family and community, and highlights the importance of cherishing one's passions and connections, even in the face of life's challenges.