Patricia Barbara Stephen

Patricia Barbara Stephen, born on March 17, 1938, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024, in the home that she was born in. Her life, a tapestry woven with creativity, devotion, and an unwavering spirit, left an indelible mark upon the hearts of all who knew her.

Patricia was a devoted mother and a loving matriarch, taking immense pride in her children and grandchildren. She nurtured their dreams and aspirations, forever encouraging them to strive for greatness. Her legacy lives on in her children, Dawn Jean (Gary) Todeschi, Crystal Ann Stephen, Laura Kay Howell, Jill Elizabeth (James) Christnacht, Michael Anthony (Denise Vyse) Stephen, and Ann Marie (the late Bryan) Sharratt, as well as her beloved grandchildren, Joseph Daniel Todeschi, Timothy Edward Howell, Ashley Anne (Timothy) Atkinson and Ami Leigh (Kameron) Schmidt. Deepening the family tree are her great-grandchildren, Rakelle Marie Smith (Todeschi) and Rory Jane Atkinson, who brought her immense joy. 

Her love extended to Jill’s stepdaughter, Jordan Kush, Ann Marie’s stepchildren, Carroll Sharratt and Jo Marie (Mark) McGuire, Jo Marie’s children, Reuben and Henry McGuire and Ashley’s stepchildren, Jace, Haven, and Shea Atkinson. Further survived by her sister-in-law, Kay Schmidt, and nephews, Michael (Marinor), Thomas (Jean), and James (Jeneane) Schmidt, and Toby (Carrie) Bowman, as well as various cousins and other relatives. Her warmth radiated deeply through those who called her family and friends throughout her life. 

Pat’s educational journey culminated with the proud achievement of earning a Bachelor of Science in Business from Cardinal Stritch University. This accomplishment was but a reflection of her insatiable appetite for knowledge and her dedication to personal growth. Throughout her professional life, she distinguished herself as an Executive Assistant for various nonprofit organizations serving the disabled community, where her organizational skills and commitment to service made her a cherished figure among colleagues and clients alike.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bernice and Anton Piojda, her siblings, Edward and Lois Piojda, her mother-in-law, Ruth Stephen, and her former spouse, Gary Stephen. 

Pat’s zest for life extended into her many hobbies, which she embraced with gusto. She found delight in decorating for the holidays, transforming her home into a festive wonderland that embraced the spirit of each season. Her creativity flourished as she lovingly crafted cards for friends and family, bestowing upon them tokens of her affection. In addition, her passion for gardening spoke to her nurturing nature, allowing her to cultivate beauty not only in her surroundings but also in the hearts of those who witnessed her efforts. She was fiercely competitive and loved playing games and reading, engaging in both game night and book club with her friends and family. She enjoyed travel and went on many trips with her family exploring numerous countries, as well as locations throughout the United States.

A woman of the arts, Patricia cherished music, often sharing her love for song by participating in her church choir. Her melodic contributions were an expression of her faith. She was also an avid enthusiast of crossword puzzles, enjoying the challenge they provided. The comics, another favorite, provided laughter and joy.

While her presence will be profoundly missed, Pat’s spirit remains alive in the myriad of memories that she created with her family and friends. Her life was a celebration of love, creativity, and knowledge - a true embodiment of a caring heart and a curious mind. As her family reflects on her proudest accomplishments, they will carry forward the values she instilled and the joy she shared. Her legacy is a testament to a life well-lived - filled with beauty, laughter, and an abundance of love that will forever resonate within the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing her.

Memorial visitation will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m., at Saint John Paul II Parish-Saint Alexander Church (1568 West Holt Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin). Inurnment at Saint Adalbert Cemetery, directly after the Mass. Please use the entrance on South 13th St, Just south of Holy Trinity entrance. Luncheon to follow at Emerald City (3555 South 13th Street, Milwaukee).

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Saint Labre Indian School, Ashland, Montana, are appreciated.