Patricia R. Niemiec, a loved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, left this world on October 11, 2023, at age 84 after bravely battling health issues over the last few years. She was born to the late Edward and Dorothy (nee: Bernhardt) Rudin on February 23, 1939 and was united in marriage to Gerald Michael Niemiec on October 14, 1961.

Pat graduated from the old St. Mary's Grade School and St. Catherine's High School class of 1957. She worked at Bell City Laundry, Prince Bakery, Dr. R.J. Schacht's office, and S.C. Johnson & Son (where she met her future husband Gerald). After leaving S. C. Johnson she worked at A.C. Spark Plug till the birth of their first child. They had four children, Lori, Jill, Mike, and Chris.

She was an active member of social clubs and an avid sewer, embroiderer, and quilter. She made many of her own clothes, a wedding dress for her daughter Lori, many cherished quilts for her family and friends, and saved many of those close to her from needing a seamstress by assisting them whenever they needed help. After her children were grown, she worked at Northwest Fabrics to support her favorite hobby.

When Pat wasn't sewing or caring for her family, you would likely find her baking and cooking delightful meals. Her grandchildren hold fond memories of sneaking dozens of incredible flavors of Christmas cookies before the family celebration. Pat enjoyed hosting all her family holidays, where she'd need constant reminding to sit and eat because everyone else could indeed serve themselves if they wanted more (which they always did).

Though her final years were met with health challenges, she remained courageous and positive, which was probably aided by the joy her family dogs provided her (Cleo, Fin, Jordy, Ellie, Sushi, Ginger, and Frankie). She would fill the room with laughter while tossing each pup as many Milk-bone treats as their parents would allow. They are all very grateful for her generosity.

Surviving are her husband Gerald, four children and their spouses, Lori (Rex) Brown, Jill (Jeff) Kutka, Michael Niemiec, and Chris (Shawn) Niemiec, her six grandchildren, Hayley (Alexandro) Cazares, Adam Kutka, Alex Kutka, Jonathan Niemiec, Riley Niemiec, and Bradley Niemiec, her two brothers and their spouses, Richard (Angie) Rudin and David (Barbara) Rudin, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

Service Details

Pat's Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Lucy's Catholic Church, 3101 Drexel Avenue, Racine on Tuesday, October 17 at 11:00AM with Father Steve Varghese officiating. Visitation will be held in the church from 10:00AM until the time of Mass. Private interment will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Memorial Suggestions

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Lucy Catholic School, Racine.