Patricia Reissmann

Patricia “Pati” Reissmann (Swetalla) passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025. Pati was born on January 25, 1945. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. For more than 60 years, she shared her life with her devoted husband, Elmer, and together they raised three boys — Todd and his wife Renee, Troy and his wife Lisa, and Tim and his wife Dawn.

Pat’s pride and joy were her family. She was blessed with grandchildren Alexandra, Keaton, Grayson, Cassandra, and Hannah. She also had two great-grandchildren, Jaxson and Sunny.

Family meant everything to her, and nothing made her happier than seeing everyone together. Pati was preceded in death by her father Harry, her mother Verla, and her younger brother Daniel, lovingly known as Buzzy. Her best friend from childhood, Mickey, passed away earlier this year.

Pati spent many years as a homemaker and also was a waitress in several local establishments throughout the Fox Valley area, where her warm personality and quick wit left a mark on everyone she met. To those who knew her best, she was affectionately known as “Red Russian Army,” a nickname given by her father Harry because of her bright red hair — hair that reminded everyone of Lucille Ball. Her fiery red spirit matched her hair perfectly.

In her younger years, Pati loved to dance. She and her brother Dick entered many dance contests in high school, and they could light up a room whenever they stepped on the floor. As the years went on, Pati found new joys — particularly watching sports with Elmer. Whether it was the Packers or the Brewers, they were loyal fans through and through. A perfect day for Pat was simple and beautiful: cooking a nice dinner for Elmer and herself, then settling down to watch the Brewers on TV — a Pabst Blue Ribbon in her hand, and a Mountain Dew in his.

Pati will be remembered for her humor, her heart, her love of family, and her unmistakable spark. She made life brighter for everyone around her — and though she is no longer with us, that light will always shine through those she loved most.

There will be a celebration of life in the Spring.