If you’ve ever walked into rehearsal and been greeted with a warm smile and a gentle spirit, you’ve likely been welcomed by Patsy Bajema. Her kindness is immediate—but so is her musicianship.
When it comes to hitting the right note, Patsy knows. She can hear it, and if you’re off pitch, she’ll let you know. Best to trust her ear.
Patsy’s musical journey began early. Her mother, a gifted singer, recognized her daughter’s natural draw to the piano and arranged lessons when Patsy was eleven. Before long, Patsy was accompanying her mother’s singing. That early partnership set the tone for a lifetime of service through music.
Over the years, Patsy has accompanied numerous choirs and sung in many herself. Encouraged by her mother—who wisely noted that churches always need skilled pianists and organists—Patsy studied with a church musician and even trained on pipe organ one summer. That dedication led to four decades of teaching piano and faithfully serving her church as both pianist and organist.
Music has always been woven into her family life as well. While raising four children, her three daughters sang in choirs. Patsy recognized early on the musical spark in her third daughter, Lorilee Bajema, and watched with pride as that spark grew into the accomplished musician and director we are blessed with today.
Since Lorilee became director, Patsy has been a dedicated Choraleer—bringing with her decades of experience, a finely tuned ear, and a heart devoted to music. Her legacy is not only in the notes she plays or the harmonies she perfects, but in the generations of musicians she has encouraged and inspired.
We are grateful for Patsy’s wisdom, her steady presence, and the beautiful example she sets for all of us.