Patricia Rose (Van Vreede) Rasmussen

Patricia Rose Rasmussen, 63, passed away on Tuesday September 18, 2018. An Irish lass from the beginning, Patricia was born in Appleton on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 1955, of the late Alois and Elaine (Foley) Van Vreede. Patricia married David Rasmussen on March 6, 1980.

Patricia was a member at St. Joseph Catholic Church. She worked in the travel industry since the age of 21, helping others as a travel agent for 42 years. She worked at Creative Group Travel for the last 21 years. Patricia loved all animals and enjoyed reading, hiking, and walking. Helping others was her greatest passion. Patricia volunteered her time and her many talents whenever and wherever she was needed. From ringing the bell during the holiday season for the Salvation Army, working at the local food pantries, to making and donating baby blankets to local hospitals, there was nothing that Patricia would not do to help others in need. She was an incredible listener and confidant; many of her friends have wondered who they will now confide in. Her greatest love was spending time with her family, friends, and colleagues; Patricia was the glue that held them together.

Patricia is survived by her loving husband of 38 years, David; their two children: son Brandon and daughter Lindsey (Derek Heckel); her 11 brothers and sisters: Dan (Kathy) Van Vreede, Don Van Vreede, Jan (Matt) Knapp, Carol (Lee) Hietpas, Diane (Rick) Benz, Donna (Gary) Sauby, Lyle Van Vreede, Linn Fischer, Gary (Sue) Van Vreede, Mary (Ed) Balcerak, and Lee (Stephanie) Van Vreede; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was further preceded in death by her infant sister, Mary Lou.

Mass of Christian Burial for Patricia will be 11:00 AM on Thursday, September 27, 2018, at ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH, 410 W. Lawrence Street, Appleton, with Fr. Jim Leary OFM Cap. officiating. Visitation will be held on Wednesday evening at Valley Funeral from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue Thursday morning at St. Joseph from 9:00 AM until 10:45 AM, with Mass  at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, a memorial in Patricia’s name has been established and will be donated to her favorite charities. Donations in her name can also be made directly to: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Madison, Fox Valley Humane Association, and March of Dimes.

Patricia’s family would like to extend a special thank-you to the entire staff at both ThedaCare at Home Hospice and ThedaCare Oncology for all of their care and compassion.

Patricia could always find a silver lining out of any situation.  She could brighten anyone’s day just by being there. Patricia lived her life by two simple rules: to always tell people you love them and to live every day like it is your last.

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