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Pat Piper Obituary
Pat was born in Delavan, Minn., on July 16, 1934, to C.I. "Spike" and Geneva (Tibodeau) Piper. She grew up in Blue Earth, and graduated from Blue Earth High School in 1952. Pat graduated with a BA degree in Elementary Education from the College of St. Teresa in Winona. She earned her MA degree in Religious Education from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.
Pat was a Franciscan Sister for 22 years, teaching grade school at St. Augustine in Austin, St. Francis in Rochester, and several other parishes in Southern Minnesota. She also taught courses at Riverland College in Austin. Pat was Director of the Christian Education Center in Austin from 1968-1994. In 1982, she was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives, and won re-election in 1984. In 1986, she was elected to the Minnesota Senate, and served there until 2001.
Pat cared deeply for children, the homeless, the poor and downtrodden. She was a great speaker who was humbled by her numerous invitations to speak at events.
Pat is survived by her siblings, Paul Piper of Minneapolis, Paulette Schwen of Apple Valley, Pierre Piper of Minneapolis, Preston (Lois) Piper of Minneapolis, and Paige (Betsy) Piper of Virginia; sister-in-law, Marinez Soares Piper of Brazil; and many nieces and nephews.
Pat is preceded in death by her parents; sister Tressa Piper, OSF; brothers Padric and Philip Piper; grandparents, Oliver and Mary Tibodeau and Irving and Katherine Piper.
A Funeral Mass will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5, at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Austin, with Father Jim Steffes officiating. Visitation will start at noon at the church until the time of the Mass. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Austin.
Memorials in Pat's name may be made to the Minnesota-North Dakota Alzheimer's Association, 7900 W. 78th St., Ste. 100, Minneapolis, MN 55439, or the Sisters of Saint Francis-Assisi, 1001 14th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901-2525.
Mayer Funeral Home in Austin is entrusted with Pat's arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at www.mayerfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Bonnie Rietz
February 5, 2016
Pat was a dear friend and mentor. She was so kind and always helping someone - a WONDERFUL woman!
George Thomas
February 5, 2016
Rest in the SPIRIT dear Pat!!!
John Marty
February 4, 2016
Pat was a gem. Her smile and calming demeanor was able to defuse tense political arguments and her compassion showed, both in the way she treated people, and in the legislation she fought for. She offered kindness and hospitality to visitors and strangers. I treasure our conversations and her laughter and smiles and friendship. Pat was truly a saint. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones.
Kathy Stutzman
February 4, 2016
A hero and mentor. Pat fought tirelessly for so many. My life is richer for her presence and wisdom. Although gone, she leaves behind an incredible legacy.
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Carissa Wyant
February 4, 2016
Very sorry to hear this. I met Pat as a k-12 student in Austin, MN. I was even able to connect with her at the State Capital, which was quite an honor for a kid from Spamtown. She was very much a personal and political inspiration and I went on to work for Sen. Edward M. Kennedy in college continue to be involved with DFL politics! I think I was lucky to see a woman in a position of leadership at a young age. Pat's strong work ethic and leadership skills, ability to bring people together and desire to work hard on behalf of the people of Minnesota were commendable. She was truly a trailblazer and will be missed!
Kathryn Anderdon
February 4, 2016
I had the great privilege of meeting her on a few occasions wonderful example of compassion and love she will be very missed God rest her soul and bless her family
Tom Berkelman
February 4, 2016
Par truly exemplified all that is good and decent in life. She was selfless, compassionate and courageous in her service to others. It was a privilege to have been a part of her life, if only briefly.
February 3, 2016
Leo Foley was in the same office space as Pat in the state senate. She was brilliant and always had toys for children when they visited. She was a wonderful advocate for the under-privileged. She is remembered fondly and highly respected.
Leo & Kathryn Foley
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