Patti Ann Spatcher

With profound sadness and cherished memories, we announce the passing of Patti Ann Spatcher (née Hildebrand), on February 21 in West Bend, Wisconsin, surrounded by family. After facing ALS with grace and courage, Patti has found peace.

Born to Howard and Maxine Grant Hildebrand in Onawa, Iowa, Patti carried the warmth and genuine spirit of her roots throughout her life. Her relationship with her mother was extraordinarily special, marked by decades of travel and nightly phone conversations that spoke to their deep and enduring bond.

Patti's legacy of love continues through her husband Dave Spatcher, who found in her the love of his life; her son, Christopher Anderson, and his wife, Melissa; Dave's daughters, Shannon (John) Weaver and Amy (Jason) Akers whom she loved as her own; five granddaughters who cherished her and were by her side when she passed; Steven (Betsy) Hildebrand and Carol Hildebrand who treasured her as a sister and sister-in-law. She was a devoted and beloved aunt to Christy Rutledge, Dana Hildebrand and Kate Wilson, a great-aunt, and great-great-aunt. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Kent Anderson, whose early passing left her to raise Chris with singular determination and boundless love; her brothers Mike and Jim Hildebrand; and her parents.

Education was her calling with a Master of Education degree and a gift for nurturing young minds, Patti devoted 35 years to generations of students at Fair Park Elementary in West Bend and schools in Madison, Wisconsin and Ames, Iowa. Parents sought her classroom for their children, recognizing the combination of wisdom, patience, and love she brought to every lesson. Her son, Christopher Anderson, reflects, "She never stopped being a teacher or a mom. You couldn't spend any time with her without loving her."

Lake Archibald (“Up North”) served as the backdrop for some of Patti's most treasured moments. Her lakeside home was a sanctuary for family and friends who gathered annually. Evenings were filled with good food, cards, and board games, and moments of joy and connection. The sound of loons across the water, laughter and quiet conversations that stretched into evening were the simple joys that Patti cherished and shared so freely.

A devoted Iowa State Cyclones alum and member of Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority, Patti approached enduring friendships and sports fandom with the same enthusiasm and loyalty she brought to every aspect of her life. Her cardinal and gold spirit never wavered.

Patti’s abiding kindness and warmth made everyone feel like family; a woman who met the world with open arms and left it infinitely better than she found it. For those lucky enough to have known her, Patti's spirit remains a gentle reminder that the greatest legacy is love freely given.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the James R Hildebrand Women's Basketball Scholarship, Iowa State University Foundation, PO Box 2230, Ames IA 50010-2230.

The family will be celebrating Patti's life privately; there will be no public service.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Patti’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book can be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.