Longtime resident of Brookfield was Born to Eternal Life on Friday, December 14, 2018, at the age of 85. She was born in Cleveland, Ohio, the first generation Irish daughter of John and Mary “Molly” (nee Fadian) Needham. Patricia was very proud of her heritage. She loved leprechauns and was always alert to evidence of their presence.
Pat’s father served in the United States Coast Guard for over 30 years, so she grew up around water and lighthouses. She enjoyed spending time at the Wind Point Racine Lighthouse and Franciscan Monastery in Burlington.
Pat was the life of the party with her quick wit and energy. She loved decorating; especially for Christmas and Halloween, activities with her family and friends, participating in church programs, and thrift store shopping.
Pat worked as a Switch Board Operator at Elmbrook Memorial Hospital, for over 30 years; where she enjoyed interacting with people and serving the community. Pat loved living in her neighborhood, watching the deer, and her wonderful neighbors. She adored the neighborhood children.
Patricia will be sadly missed by her children, Kathleen (Brigadier General James Krueck) Carlson, Elizabeth Carlson, Theresa Carlson, Bernadette (Carey Chapman) Carlson and Constance Carlson. Grandchildren, Molly, DJ, Jack, Catherine, Lucy and John; daughter-in-law, Julia Carlson. She is further survived by other relatives and many friends. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donald R. Carlson C.P.A.; son, Donald Carlson, MD; grandchildren, Alexander Kreuck and Patrick Carlson; brother, John Needham; and nephews, Michael and Kenny.
A visitation will be held on Friday, December 21, 2018, at the Becker Ritter Funeral Home (14075 W. North Ave., Brookfield) from 9:00 AM until 10:15 AM, there will be a procession to St. John Vianney Catholic Parish (1755 N. Calhoun Rd.) for the 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial. Private entombment at a later date at Holy Cross Cemetery.
In Lieu of flowers the family would like donations to Patricia’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
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