Patricia Ann Roche Pfeil Wheeler, 84, known affectionately as Tissie, Pat or Granny, died in her sleep Aug. 11, 2013. Pat was born on May 29, 1929, at St. Annes Hospital in Chicago, to Eleanor and Joseph Roche. Her two younger sisters, Carol and Mary, both predeceased her.
Growing up primarily in West Allis, Pat loved school and reading, preferring microscopes over dolls. Following a school project she took home a pet alligator, named Percival, who initiated her life-long love for reptiles.
Pat attended Mt. Mary College in Milwaukee for two years and transferred to the University of Wisconsin Madison where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in education in 1951. Following graduation Pat was invited by the Dean to join MENSA, the national organization for people who score above the 98th percentile on intelligence tests. Her first and only teaching position was at Elkhorn High School where she taught English and served as the debate and drama coach.
On June 13, 1953, she married attorney Richard (Dick) H. Pfeil, widower and father of four young children, Janet, Mary, Susan and Richard, whom she lovingly adopted and raised as her own. A son, Kirk, was born to Pat and Dick in 1961.
The Pfeil family lived in Elkhorn for 39 years, and then Pat and Dick moved to Fontana in 1979. Dick passed away in 1992. Pat then pursued her lifes desire for skydiving, a sport she continued until 1995, when she married Murray Wheeler, who passed away in 2012.
While Pat played golf for the fun of the game, bridge, gin and football handicapping were her games of choice. She was talented and prolific at needlepoint. She loved to travel, especially to the beaches of Mexico where she enjoyed dark tanning and hot sauce.
Pat was determined to prove herself in feats not expected of a woman such as Judo, Karate and sky diving. After her first solo sky dive she bested her male counterparts in the induction ceremony by downing a glassful of Tabasco sauce without a wince.
Pat found joy and laughter in every situation. Pat was known for her quick wit, spirit of adventure, and salty humor. Friends and family are convinced that she is now giving St. Peter a chuckle as she passes through the pearly gates.
Pat is survived by her children, Janet (Bill) Jensen, Mary Adler, Susan Pfeil, Richard (Mary Jo) Pfeil, and Kirk (Carole) Pfeil. She is also lovingly remembered by 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
There will be a private memorial for immediate family.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting any donations be made to the Lakeland Health Care Center in Elkhorn, who provides loving and dignified care for so many individuals.
Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Homes and Crematory of Elkhorn is assisting the family.
