In memory of Patti Witte, gone too soon.

“I’m a good person,” Patti would say.  At the start of her early onset Alzheimer’s Disease a decade ago, Patti was confused a lot and grasping. The one thing she knew for sure, and she wanted others to know, is that she is a good person.  And she was. 

Sadly, our sweet Patti Richter Witte passed away last week.  She was 66 years old.  She died peacefully in her home in Albuquerque, NM, holding the hand of her husband of 36 years, Charles (Bud) Witte. 

Patti was funny -- the life of the party.  Sometimes we called her "Patti Witte, party of one."  Patti was beautiful, precocious and kind.  She loved to create beauty in other people, in her gardens and in her home.  She had style.  Patti loved to cook for people and she was excellent at it.  She loved Hall & Oates, Steely Dan and Motown -- singing songs at the top of her lungs – off key, but with gusto and conviction.  Patti loved her friends like they were family, and she loved her family.  Patti was a sweet, tender and genuine person and a pleasure to be around.  Patti was not perfect, but she was perfectly herself.  God took Patti, and her mind, way too early.  We all miss Patti terribly, but there is no doubt she is getting the party started at her new address.      

Patti is survived by her husband Bud Witte, her daughter Madison Witte, her stepdaughter Breanne Witte Kerr, her stepson Brandon Witte, her grandchildren Charlie, Henry, Oliver, and Lola, her mother Peg Richter, her sisters Paula Richter Gallitz, Amy Richter Murphy, Jennifer Richter Maurer and Beth Richter DeBord.  She is preceded in death by her father Bill Richter.  She is also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws across the country, all of whom she loved dearly.  

A celebration of Patti’s life will be held in Milwaukee this summer and we look forward to seeing you there.  More details to come.