Patricia Smith

Patricia “Pat” Smith, age 88, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025.

Pat was born on October 26, 1936, to Robert and Matilda “Tillie” Thresher in Fond du Lac. She dedicated her life to caring for others and fostering community bonds, leaving behind a rich legacy of love and creativity.

On November 17, 1957, Patricia married Ronald “Ron” Smith in Fond du Lac and they were married for 68 wonderful years. They lived on the family farm near Randolph and Waupun. Pat's impact extended beyond her family; she was known as “Grandma Pat” to many during her tenure as a child care provider at WeeCare in Waupun. Pat had an engaging personality and spunky attitude. She also had a passion for the arts, owning a business called "Wild Wood Gifts" where she showcased her talent in dry and silk flower arrangements as well as crafting. Pat loved books and was an avid reader.

A true nurturer, Patricia tended to her beloved perennial garden with an exceptional green thumb. She also took care of the flowers at the Waupun Christian Home. Her involvement in her community and church was evident through her role as a CCD coordinator at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Fox Lake, and her participation in the Waupun Craft Club, where she served both as an active member and teacher.

Pat was an advocate for young lives, having been a Cadet leader in Girl Scouts in Randolph. She enjoyed helping others grow and discover their potential.

She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Ron; children, Linda (Jim) Kayzar of Ogema, Beverly Albrecht of Waupun, Anthony (Elizabeth Phillips-Smith) Smith of Francis Creek, and Elizabeth Busch Gay of Waupun; grandchildren; Wendy (Sean), Robert (Jennifer), Bridget (significant other, Ryan Lareza), Kimberly (Joshua), Peter (Lisa), Aaron (Ashley), Nathanael (Molly), Benjamin, Justin, and Lindsay (Jordan); 12 great-grandchildren; her siblings; Tom (Kate) Thresher, Robert (Mary) Thresher, and Matt (Ida) Thresher; brothers-in-law: Don Frank, Gabe Eder, Dick Sabel; sister-in-law, Joanne Thresher; along with many other relatives, friends, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings: Jerry, Dorothy, Steve, Joe, Janette, Sue, Kathy and Lynn; grandchild, Curtis Albrecht; great-grandchild, Ryan Brevik; and son-in-law, Mark Gay.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to Waupun Public Library.