My Mothers Obituary

For those that wont see the obituary in the paper, but would like to see it, I am sharing it on my blog.


Before her passing on Monday, Patricia Rentz had spent the past 64 years spreading sunshine into the lives of everyone that she knew. She leaves a trail of laughter, generosity, wisdom and memories.She was the strength to her family and was always there to pick up the pieces for those that needed her. She loved helping others and often took in those that needed a home, a meal, a hug and some direction.
Patricia was born to Francis and Shirley Patnaude on February 25, 1948 in Elkorn, Wisconsin. Her father, Francis, precedes her in death. Patty was raised in a big family and is survived by her mother,Shirley, and 7 siblings. Ilene (Dan) Bailey, Leona (Harlan) Wagner, Larry (Clarise) Patnaude, Dean (Sandy) Patnaude, Grace (Gene) Nickel, John (Nan) Patnaude and Shirley (Gary) Coulman.
Pat met the love of her life at Admiral, a factory that they both worked at, in the late sixties. She married John Rentz on July 6, 1968. Together, they built a home full of love and affection for their 3 childrenin Woodstock, Illinois. She welcomed many people into her home during the course of her life. She always had a welcoming and beautiful smile, she was very witty and filled every ones life with lots of laughter. She made friends very easily, as everyone loved her sense of humor and personality.
John preceded her in death and left her a widow in 1999. She is survived by her children, Tammy (Charlie) Gauf, Tina (Chris) Brooks and George Rentz.
Pat touched the lives and was a favorite Aunt to many of her nieces and nephews. She was a mother figure, role model, and confidant to them. She often took them in, gave them motherly advice and most of all showered them with the love they needed when they needed it most.
Pat loved her grandchildren most of all and will be greatly missed by them. She leaves behind countless memories of trips to the zoo, water parks, picnics, family gatherings but most of all her generous heart full of love for each and every one of them. Nick, Nicky, Samantha, Dakota, Johnna, Carson, Skyler, Emmy and Marc and great granddaughter Gracelyn will always remember Nana and Grandma with the fondest of memories.
Patricia was loved by many and will be missed. She suffered a terminal illness that wasn't well understood. She donated her brain to science in high hope that someone will benefit in the future. She chose to be cremated. There will be a private ceremony for close Family and Friends to celebrate her life