Patricia Rubin (née Barden)

Mrs. Patricia Ann "Pat" Rubin (née Barden), age 69, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri. Born on May 28, 1956, in Chicago, Illinois, Patricia lived a life marked by resilience, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to the well-being of others.

Patricia was a graduate of Merrill Sr. High School in Merrill, Wisconsin. Early in her professional journey, she earned her real estate license in Chicago and quickly found success in the mortgage industry. Her sharp business acumen and work ethic earned her a respected reputation as a businesswoman for many years.

In 2008, Patricia made a courageous and inspiring career change by enrolling at Gateway Technical College in Wisconsin to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. Her passion for caregiving and advocacy led her to further her education, and in 2014 she proudly became a Licensed Practical Nurse. During her studies, she participated in Gateway's Study Abroad Program in Belize—an experience she cherished deeply.

Patricia found her true calling as a geriatric nurse. Her dedication to her patients went far beyond clinical care; she provided emotional support and companionship to those who needed it most. She was known for taking time out of her busy schedule to sit with the lonely and advocate fiercely for the dignity and comfort of seniors. Her approach to nursing embodied compassion at its highest level—those whose loved ones were under her care knew they were truly in excellent hands.

Patricia's life was filled with joy derived from simple pleasures and meaningful connections. She adored spending time with family and friends—whether catching up over coffee, strolling through farmer's markets, or admiring classic cars at local shows. Even when an activity wasn't quite to her taste, Pat would join wholeheartedly just to be with the people she loved. Her selflessness and joy in making others happy were central to who she was.

Her deep bond with animals—especially German Shepherds—was another defining aspect of her life. She took great pride in training and raising them with care and devotion. Among them all, it was King who held a particularly special place in her heart.

Nature brought Patricia peace and inspiration. She delighted in watching birds visit her backyard feeders and took great pride in tending to her flowers and plants. Whether basking outdoors or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of nature around her home, she found solace under open skies.

An avid learner with an open mind, Patricia embraced both new experiences and timeless pastimes such as reading, playing board games, or working on puzzles. Her curiosity extended into spirituality as well. Though raised Christian, Patricia found deep resonance with the beliefs of the Great Sioux Nation later in life. She connected profoundly with their reverence for nature and the Great Spirit—a unifying force present in all living things. The hawk became especially meaningful to Patricia as her spirit animal—a symbol that those close to her recognized as deeply personal.

She was honored to be welcomed into moments of prayer and spiritual practice by local Native communities—a rare privilege that reflected the mutual respect she cultivated wherever she went. Though limited by tribal customs from full participation, Patricia continued these practices privately with sincerity and reverence.

Patricia will be remembered for more than just what she did—she will be remembered for how she made people feel: seen, heard, valued, and loved. Her radiant personality lit up every room she entered. With a heart full of empathy and a spirit fueled by laughter—her favorite medicine—she brought joy into countless lives.

Her strength was quiet but unwavering; her compassion boundless; her legacy enduring.

Patricia will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Matt Rubin; her daughter, Laurie (Michael) Gillett; and her grandson, Wyatt Gillett. She is also survived by her sisters, Mary Barden and Alice (Pete) Bullis; her brother, Fred Barden; her nieces, Kristina (Pat) Behrndt and Kathryn (Ken) Giesfeldt; and her nephew, Shad Barden. In addition to her family, Patricia leaves behind many dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing her.

She is now reunited with her father, Judson Barden; mother, Florence (Judson) Barden; sister, Shirley Barden; brother, Robert James; ex-husband, James Stapleton; and numerous cherished friends who preceded her in death.

May the memory of Mrs. Patricia Ann "Pat" Rubin bring comfort to all who knew and loved her—and may we carry forward the light she so generously shared with this world. All family and friends are welcome to Patricia's Celebration of Life, which will be held on January 17, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 01:00 PM at the Wruck Beach Pavilion on Park Drive in Pleasant Prairie, WI. The pavilion is located on the southwest side of Lake Andrea's beach and picnic area and is an enclosed building, so the service won't be exposed to the winter elements.