Patricia R. Martin, age 81 of Plum City, died peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, November 4, 2020, at the Plum City Care Center in Plum City, WI. 

Pat was born on July 26, 1939, in Durand, Wisconsin. She was the daughter of Ray L. and Irene (Prissel) Bauer. She grew up in Durand, attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduated from Durand High School in 1957. After high school, Pat attended UW- La Crosse to pursue a degree in education. Pat married Lester “Les” Martin on September 13, 1958, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Durand. After marriage, they moved to the Martin home farm in Plum City where they raised their family. When her children were older, Pat finished her degree at UW-River Falls and started her career in education. Pat taught for a few years at St. Mary’s Catholic School and for 26 years at Plum City High School until her retirement. After retirement, Pat enjoyed tutoring students and being on the Plum City Scholarship Committee.

Pat enjoyed reading and spending time with family and friends. Her patron saint was Saint Francis of Assisi, the protector of animals. Pat had a love for all animals and always had pets at home.

Pat is survived by her children: Alison (Zane) Gray of Las Vegas, NV; Betsy (Kent) Myhre of Woodbury, MN; Chris (Lori) of Plum City, WI; Mike of Plum City, WI; Mary (Ben) Valencia of Mesa, AZ; and Joe (Bonnie) of Pepin, and  nine grandchildren.

She is also survived by five siblings: Marjorie “Bunny” (Fritz) Kazlausky of Fox Lake, IL; Roger (Alice) Bauer of Durand, WI;  Barb Gibson of Menomonie, WI; Kathy Kay of Portland, OR; and Tom Bauer of Eau Claire, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Les, and her brother, Ronald Bauer.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in the Spring. 

Memorials may be made in Pat’s name to the Plum City High School Educational Foundation Scholarship Fund (PCEF).

Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.

Condolences

1. Michael Holmstadt January 4, 2021, at 3:56pm

   Pat was everyone's favorite teacher. So kind, infinitely patient, eager to assist, and always looking out for her students. Many great memories in her classroom and just talking to her in the hall. She touched many lives and now she can watch all of us from her heavenly vantage.

2. Sally Klevgard November 25, 2020, at 12:07pm

   Dear Martin and Bauer Family

   It has been a great pleasure to have known the beautiful Patricia Martin all of my life. I will always remember Pat's effortless smile and caring heart the most!

   Condolences to all!

3. Barb (Metcalf ) Ducklow November 22, 2020, at 7:03pm

   To the Bauer Family: The Metcalf family would like to send our sympathy to all of you!! All the memories of our two families will be remembered forever! Condolences to the Martin family!! Pat was a great person! Would love to know when you have a memorial for Pat! We would love to join in her celebration of life!! Barb Ducklow

4. Don and Tootie Sinz November 16, 2020, at 10:22am

   Our condolences to your family for your loss prayers to all ????????????

5. Stephanie Peterson November 14, 2020, at 11:48am

   We are sorry for your loss! Pat was a lovely person to know! She certainly loved her Lord! May God bless you and comfort you!

6. Sara Malles November 14, 2020, at 6:22am

   I am so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Martin was my tenth grade English teacher and introduced me to one of my favorite authors. I am grateful for her love of good writing and her sunny disposition.

7. Theresa (Manor) Schafer November 13, 2020, at 7:18pm

   Prayer and hugs to the family RIP Pat keep smiling

8. Mary Bauer Cooper November 12, 2020, at 2:42pm

   Our sincere condolences to all the families. I will always remember that big smile.

9. Larry and Carol Bauer Prissel November 12, 2020, at 11:57am

   Our Sympathy to Barb and Tom and all the Family. Prayers for Patricia.

10. Jim and Marge Schiefelbein November 12, 2020, at 10:15am

    So sorry to hear of Pat's passing. What a very special person she was. She was Jim's first love, although not sure if she knew it at age 12. We have very fond memories of our growing up in Durand together. We spent much time at Ray and Irene's house watching TV. Even though she suffered in later years, she always had a big smile and a warm hello. God Bless.

11. Keri FitzPatrick November 11, 2020, at 5:44pm

    Dear Betsy and family,
    Sending you lots of hugs and love. May all your memories fill your hearts at this time and forever. Your family has a great history of love and laughter, I hope those wonderful traits buoy during difficult times.
    Love, Keri and Mark

12. Thelma |Weisenbeck November 11, 2020, at 3:05pm

    Sending my love and sympathy to siblings, children, and grandchildren. May you rest in peace Pat.
    Sincerely,
    Thelma Weisenbeck

13. Patricia Frion November 11, 2020, at 8:49am

    So very sorry for your loss. Pat was one grand lady.

14. Randy & Audrey Richardson November 11, 2020, at 7:58am

    So sorry for your loss. Keeping Pat's family in our thoughts and prayers.

15. Patricia Spotz November 10, 2020, at 8:41pm

    We would like to express our sincere condolences to you and your family.
    Sincerely,
    Patty & Ken Spotz

16. Joanne Hovey November 10, 2020, at 7:23pm

    Pat touched many lives. She was a kind and caring lady. Love to all the family. ????

17. Irish Jade November 10, 2020, at 3:41pm

    My DEEPEST HEARTFELT SYMPATHY. May God’s love give all of your family the comfort of losing a loving & sweet soul.

18. Gary & Judi Bauer November 10, 2020, at 3:01pm

    Our deepest sympathy to the Roger Bauer family and Barb Gibson and family and the rest of family members.
    Keeping you in our prayers.

19. Richard Bates November 10, 2020, at 12:51pm

    Dear Martin and Bauer Families,
    We were so sorry to hear of Pat's passing. Our deepest sympathy to you. Hugs and Prayers. Rest in Peace Pat! Dick and Jan Bates

20. Kristine Polzer November 10, 2020, at 12:47pm

    The Bauer Family was always was very special to the Slama Family and Irene worked at our grocery store. Pat was a wonderful lady who I have many good memories of. Rest in Peace Pat. Hugs to the family.

    Sincerely,
    Kris and Dave Polzer

21. Tara (Edblom) Bergeson November 10, 2020, at 12:18pm

    I have many happy memories of Pat during my years at PCHS. She was a wonderful teacher - always patient and willing to help. I hope your happy memories of her provide you all with comfort at this time.

22. Judy and John parr November 10, 2020, at 12:17pm

    Hugs to all

23. thomas biles November 10, 2020, at 11:59am

    sorry to here of your loss prayers to the family

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