Patricia L. Fraisl ("Pat"), 82, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026.

Pat lived a life of quiet kindness, boundless creativity, and unwavering generosity. She found her greatest joy in helping others, creating with her hands, loving her family, and leaving the world a little brighter than she found it.

Pat is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Melissa Kita and her husband, Brian; her beloved grandchildren, Aaron and Brandon; and many dear friends whose lives were touched by her kindness.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Leonard Wildermuth and Wanda Wildermuth.

Pat attended Marycrest College in Davenport, Iowa, where she earned her degree in Biology in 1967.

As a young mother, Pat devoted herself to raising her children. She served as a Girl Scout leader, organized school bake sales, and was a familiar face supporting scouting activities, youth sports, and school events. Whether cheering from the sidelines, volunteering her time, or encouraging her children to pursue their interests, she believed in being present and giving her wholehearted support.

After her children were grown, Pat began a second chapter in her life by pursuing a career as a medical technician at Dreyer Medical Clinic in Aurora, Illinois. She cared for patients with compassion and dedication for many years before enjoying a well-earned retirement.

Retirement simply opened the door to even more opportunities to share her talents. Pat was an exceptionally gifted crafter whose creativity touched countless lives. She delighted in making handmade greeting cards, many of which were donated to organizations that sent them to military veterans. She crocheted small treasures to leave behind during family vacations, hoping to brighten the day of strangers who discovered them. She also knitted hats for cancer patients receiving treatment, quietly supported local food pantry with donations whenever she could, and found countless ways to use her talents to bring comfort and joy to others.

Her love for animals, especially cats, was a constant throughout her life. Pat shared her home and heart with many beloved cats over the years and found great joy in caring for them. That love inspired her volunteer work with A.R.F., where she cared for cats awaiting adoption during morning shifts at PetSmart. She believed every animal deserved love, patience, and a safe place to call home.

Pat was also an avid reader who enjoyed thousands of books throughout her lifetime, especially audiobooks. She had an insatiable curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.

One of Pat's greatest joys was spending time with her grandchildren. She treasured every opportunity to create memories with them, sharing her love, creativity, and generous spirit.

Over the last decade, Pat and her daughter shared many cherished trips to Florida's Gulf Coast. She loved walking the beaches in search of seashells, finding peace in the rhythm of the waves and delight in the simple treasures the sea left behind. Those quiet moments together became some of life's most treasured memories.

Pat will be remembered for her generous heart, her creative spirit, and her unwavering desire to help others. She believed that even the smallest act of kindness could make someone's day a little brighter. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched through her compassion, creativity, and quiet acts of service.