Virginia "Patti" Bratter

Age 93 of Minnetonka, MN, died on 10/12/2024 with her loving family by her side. She was born on 12/23/1930 to Simon, 'Shorty,' and Marion (Hymes) Klein in Saint Paul. She attended University High School and the University of Minnesota. She married the love of her life, James Edward Gottlieb, on 6/14/1953 and would welcome five sons into the world over the ensuing decade. When asked what it was like to raise five boys, mom always replied, "Better five boys than five girls." She was fearless. The family thrived as dad climbed the corporate ladder at Gamble-Skogmo and National Foods. Yet tragedy stuck when dad died during a business trip to Chicago on 1/28/1975. Dad was just 50 years old and was excited to begin a new job in Chicago; he had already purchased a family home there. Devastated and left to raise five teenage sons on her own, mom had to pick herself up and move forward. She devoted herself to her boys, ensuring that everyone excelled in high school and attended college. In 1978, Mom married Bernie Bratter, formerly of St. Paul, and moved to Encino, California. Bernie was a man of integrity: pragmatic, gentle, and easygoing. They had many friends and spent their time together traveling, attending cultural events, playing tennis and cards. Despite 35 years in California, mom's heart remained in Minnesota. Her proudest moments were seeing her boys marry, become fathers and succeed in their careers. When Bernie passed away on 1/28/2014, mom came home to Minnesota within weeks and rarely looked back. Once home, mom picked up where she left off. She shifted into high gear, reconnecting with childhood friends while making new friends. She played cards nearly every day and kept in constant touch with her family. She drove until age 90 and remained active and engaged until the end. Surrounded by loved ones in her final days, she said, "I am the luckiest person in the world." We will miss her dearly. Preceded in death by parents; husbands, James Gottlieb and Bernie Bratter; sister, Sharon. Survived by sons, Ellis Gottlieb (wife Francine, son Simon and daughter Sara), Robert Gottlieb (wife Mindy), David Gottlieb (wife Carol, daughter Jennifer and son Jeremy), Daniel Gottlieb (wife Lynn, son Sam and daughter Isabel), Steven Gottlieb (wife Jill, daughter Sydney), and sister-in-law Joy Bratter. The family wishes to thank the hospice staff at Sholom Home West. Memorials are preferred to Sholom Home West. Shiva will be held 7:00 PM TUESDAY, October 15 at ADATH JESHURUN CONGREGATION, 10500 Hillside LN W, Minnetonka 55305. There will be a private family burial.