Patricia L. (Hurley) Schabo

Patricia L. (Hurley) Schabo age84,  passed away Monday, May 22, 2023 at her home of 58 years in Appleton.  She was born on March 10, 1939 to Don and Grace (Otto) Hurley.  Preceded in death by her parents, husband Donald E. Schabo, and brother Michael P. Hurley.  With whom, in a stroke of Irish luck, she shared a birthday though 22 years apart.  

Pat grew up in Appleton attending St. Mary Grade School Appleton and St. Mary’s High School in Menasha.  After school she began working at Miller Electric.  She and Don Schabo then married on April 24, 1965 and moved into what became the hub of gatherings for friends and family, which it remains to this day.  The two of them were able to spend 53 wonderful years together at this home.  

Pat enjoyed many good times with family and friends.  She loved supporting her children and grandchildren in all their activities.  Whether this was football, basketball, tennis, baseball, volleyball, soccer, or hockey she wanted to be a part of the excitement.  Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joys.  Her only granddaughter christened her “Darey” almost 30 years ago.  That name has stuck with her ever since. 

Her second greatest joy was camping.  Anyone in the family will attribute their love of camping to Pat and Don.  It began in the 60’s when they took a tent with Pat’s younger siblings.  This love was passed down to their children, grandchildren, and the siblings’ families and switched to travel trailers as time went on.  After retiring from Winch Financial, Pat and Don enjoyed spending their summers visiting their favorite campgrounds at Franklin Lake in Eagle River, Peninsula State Park in Door County, and Upper Michigan with family and great friends; Behrens and Goszs.  

There was nothing better than holidays at the Schabo’s.  Pat always made sure there were plenty of snacks and sweets (her personal favorites: Hurley Dip, Chex mix, cut-out cookies, and Special K bars).  Since everyone piled into the kitchen, you would be warned to stay out of her corner. Once that was cleaned up; let the card playing begin.   She hated to lose, but always had a good laugh with whoever she was playing with.  

Pat is survived by her three children: Rick (JaTame) Schabo, Appleton, Ann (Lucas Roman) Schabo, St. Paul, MN, and Kris (Tony) Kappell, Appleton; five grandchildren: Sage and Charlie Schabo, Sam and Ben Kappell, and Alex Roman; Sisters: Marlene Dion, Susan Dailey, and Kelly (Tim) Robertson all of Appleton; Brother Don (Kuni) Hurley, NJ; Sister-in-law: Deanna Hurley; Sister-in-law: Carol (Fran) Sturm; Brothers-in-law: Bob (Judy) Schabo; Bill Schabo; Pat is further survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  

Thank you Darey for loving us with such a big heart.  We all love you so much, and know that you are with dad and Michael having a laugh, watching us from above.  Until we meet again.    

Family and friends may gather at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 312 S State St., Appleton on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 from 4:00 pm until 5:00 pm with the Funeral Mass to be held at 5:00 pm, Fr. Bill Swichtenberg officiating.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Mary Parish Appleton for the Michael Hurley Scholarship Fund.

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