Patricia J. Below's Obituary
Patricia Jean Below (Schmidt), 77, of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026.
Patricia was born on July 21, 1948, in Antigo, Wisconsin, to the late Horace and Rose (Parilek) Schmidt. She grew up in Antigo and graduated from Antigo High School before attending the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, where she earned her bachelor's degree in English. She later returned to UW–Oshkosh to complete her Master of Science degree in Counseling.
Patricia began her professional career as a teacher after moving to Clovis, NM. Over the years, she and her family lived in various locations before returning to Wisconsin. After earning her master's degree, she worked for the State of Wisconsin Job Service before continuing her career with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, where she dedicated many years of service before retirement.
Patricia was married to James Below and later shared happy years in Eau Claire with her life partner, the late Walter Marty. She experienced profound loss with the passing of her son, Judd Below, but remained deeply devoted to her family throughout her life.
She is survived by her granddaughter, Kylara (Adam) Killian; her great-granddaughter, Claire; her sister, Linda Wacker; her brother, Dale (Amy) Schmidt; her nephews, Ben (Smita) Wacker and Nathan (Ashly) Schmidt; her niece, Lexi Schmidt; as well as many extended family members, dear friends, and loved ones whose lives she touched.
Those who knew Patricia will remember her generous spirit, adventurous nature, and love of bringing people together. She found great joy in cooking elaborate meals for family and friends, a passion so well known that she maintained a freezer dedicated entirely to pies. She also loved traveling and creating memories with those she cared about most.
Patricia was a proud member of the Ya-Ya's, a close-knit group of friends, and a Gourmet Club whose members shared a love of cooking, friendship, and gathering around the table. The relationships she built throughout her life were a source of great happiness and remained important to her until the very end.
Patricia's warmth, kindness, intelligence, and sense of humor touched countless lives. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A memorial service celebrating Patricia's life will be held at Evergreen Retirement Community in Oshkosh, WI. (1130 N. Westfield St.) on Tuesday July 21, 2026 at 11:00 AM, a time for visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service at Evergreen. Pastor Steve Wood will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Patricia's honor to the Evergreen Foundation in Oshkosh, WI or to Bolton Refuge of Eau Claire, WI; organizations that reflect her values of compassion, community, and care for others.
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