Patricia A. De Bruin

Patricia “Pat” A. De Bruin, 82, of Kimberly, died on Tuesday, January 3, 2012 after a courageous battle with heart disease with her family by her side.

Pat was born on April 24, 1929 to Harold and Beatrice (McCormick) Chew in Fond du Lac. On August 27, 1949 she was united in marriage to Vernon DeBruin at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Menasha. Pat was a very active person and volunteered in many organizations including Al Anon, the Genesis Club, VIOS, the Friends Hotline, a driver for Outagamie County, and an early organization for family and friends of gay people. She had a ceramics shop, loved to read and go to Oneida Bingo and Casino. Pat was also active in her Church for many years, the Fox Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.

Pat is survived by her husband of 62 years, Vern of Kimberly and four children; Chris (Randy Shannon) De Bruin, of Appleton, Cindi DeBruin, of Kimberly, Tom (Cookie) De Bruin, of Pittsburgh, PA, and Tim De Bruin of Kimberly, eight grandchildren; Jed (Kirrily), Jesse (Josh), Michael (Meagan), Josh (Becky), Amie (Adam), Sarah (Chuck), Katie (Nathan), and Megan. She is further survived by her great grandchildren; Ollie, Violet, Neno, Taj, Isley Dylan, Kailee, Shamari, Taisean, Janaya and a brother Jimmy (Jean) Chew of Menasha, a niece and nephew; Jeff and Jan, other relatives, neighbors and many friends.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents, a beloved son, Paul DeBruin, a grand daughter, Marie Lyn, and a great grandchild, Kat Marie.

The memorial service for Pat will be held on Monday, January 9, 2012 at 12:00 PM at the STAR OF HOPE CHAPEL in Highland Memorial Park (3131 N Richmond St. Appleton) with Rev. Roger Bertschausen officiating. A time of visitation will be held on Monday from 11:00 AM until the time of the service at the Chapel.

The family would like to thank all of Pat's caretakers over the years especially the 3rd floor cardiac staff at Appleton Medical Center, her family physician, and the Theda Care at Home Hospice staff and volunteers for allowing Pat to be at home.

A memorial will be established in Pat's name.

Wichmann Funeral Home
537 N. Superior St
Appleton, WI 54911
920-739-1231