Tuesday, January 14, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Patricia Jean (Krause) Leinwander, who left us peacefully on Friday December 13th 2024, at Three Oaks Health Services. Patricia was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, nurse, neighbor, and friend whose kindness and compassion touched all who knew her.
Born on April 28th, 1931 in Antigo WI to the late Anton and Caroline Krause, Patricia was known for her unwavering dedication to her family and her selfless care for others. As a nurse, she spent 42 years at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield caring for her patients with a tenderness and skill that earned her the admiration of her colleagues and the gratitude of countless families. She approached her work with empathy and a fierce commitment to making others feel seen and supported, both in the hospital and beyond, retiring in 1996, but still stayed on for a few years as casual just to keep up with her hospital family and sharing jokes.
At the heart of her life was her family. As a loving wife to John “Hans” Leinwander, she shared 63 years of love, partnership, and cherished memories before John’s passing in 2015. As a mother, she and John raised 5 children with patience, wisdom, and unconditional love. Patricia was also a proud grandmother, deeply devoted to her grandchildren, whom she showered with affection and guidance.
Outside of her professional life and family duties, Patricia was a passionate lover of animals. Whether it was caring for her own pets or supporting animal welfare, she was a tireless advocate for the well-being of all creatures. Her compassion for animals was just one more reflection of her generous spirit. Patricia loved growing a vegetable and flower garden with John, feeding the birds, and taking the dogs for long walks.
Patricia was a cherished friend to many. Her warmth, laughter, and unwavering support brightened the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. She was a constant source of encouragement, offering a listening ear or a helping hand when needed, and her friendship will be dearly missed.
She is survived by her children, Nancy Leinwander (Brion Kasza) Milwaukee, Jean Leinwander Wisconsin Rapids, Mark (Penny) Leinwander, Lake Almanor CA. Gary Leinwander, Marshfield,
Sue (Eric) Fehrenbach, Marshfield, daughter in-law Lisa Leinwander. 5 grandchildren, Danielle Leinwander, Jared (Rylie) Leinwander, Aaron (Alexis) Leinwander, Ellie (Eric) Seehafer and Emalee Fehrenbach, 4 Great Grandchildren, Levi and Mason Leinwander, Eve Seehafer, Grayson Leinwander, and a sister Helen “Chuckie” Drexler, and a host of extended family and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, husband John, sister, Georgian (Victor) Resch, brothers Philip (Joanne) Krause and Roderick (Peg) Krause. A service is not planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to Copper Paws Rescue, Inc. or an animal shelter of your choice in Patricia’s name.
Though we mourn the loss of Patricia, we take comfort in the many lives she touched with her love and compassion. Her legacy of care, kindness, and love will live on in all who knew her.
The family would like to extend a heart felt thank you to the employees of Stoney River Assisted Living, Three Oaks Health Service and Heartland Hospice for their companionate care of Patricia.
