Obituaries

Patricia Sweeney Schaefer, 77, of Elburn, Illinois, passed away peacefully after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.  Patricia was born on January 13, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, to Joseph and Catherine Sweeney.

After graduating from St. Mary’s College in South Bend, Indiana, Patricia married Michael, her middle school sweetheart.  She was a software engineer, an entrepreneur, and a teacher, but her most cherished job was that of wife and mother.  Patricia loved training her dogs and she especially enjoyed working with her therapy dog to help children.  A gourmet cook, Patricia showed her love for family and friends through extravagant hospitality and there was always room for 1 more at her table.  Patricia also loved to play tennis and sew and was game for all the adventures that Mike suggested, becoming an avid sailor, skier, camper, and backpacker along their journey together.

 Patricia went by many names including Pat, Patti, Mom, Aunt, Nana, and Meme, and was beloved by all who were fortunate enough to know her.  An amazing listener and empath, Patricia endeared herself immediately to all who crossed her path.  Patricia is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years, Michael, her children, Christine Schaefer, Kelly (Schaefer) and Doug Gagne, Daniel and Kristine (Gableson) Schaefer, her grandchildren, Kelsey Dame, Brian Dame, Shannon Dame, Alex Gagne, and Calder Gagne, and her brother, Kevin Sweeney.

 A Service/Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to The Sunrise Good Samaritan Fund (GSF), a non-profit 501(c)(3), or the charity of your choice.

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