Patricia Eloise (Greiner) Rasch

Patricia Eloise (Greiner) Rasch, age 94, of Conklin entered eternal life on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at home with family. Surviving are her children; Brenda (Nate) Long, Ruth (Jerry) Stephens, Bruce Rasch (Peggy Rekucki), Joe (Mary) Rasch, Vonnie (Jim) O'Connor, Marie Rasch, Marilyn (Mark) Zemaitis, and Lisa (Andy) Sack; 27 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; sisters Bev Rasch and Sr. Yvonne Greiner OP, brother Gerald "Bud" Greiner, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Leo Rasch; her parents, Leo and Carrie Greiner, and siblings; Dolores, Burt, Tom, and Floretta. Pat grew up on the family farm and her life was centered around faith, family, and friends. She held them all close to her heart, along with her guardian angel. On November 27, 1952, Pat married the love of her life, Leo, at St. Joseph Weare in Hart, MI. She was known as “the apple of his eye.” Pat’s home was always a place of welcome and generosity. She treasured every gathering—whether a birthday, holiday, or sporting event. She never let anyone leave hungry! Pat was a lifelong teacher and affectionately referred to her children and grandchildren as “My Class.” She passed on countless life lessons, always with a warm heart, finding special meaning in the teamwork of boat parades and shared sewing and other projects. Holding her great-grandchildren brought her deep joy, and she considered the health and togetherness of her family among life’s greatest blessings. As the beloved matriarch, she took great pride in her ever-growing family and the hard work demonstrated in their many professions. The family extends special gratitude to granddaughter Leah for her devoted care in Pat’s final days. Professionally, Pat was a respected faculty member at Grand Rapids Junior College for 20 years, where she built lasting friendships and found tremendous fulfillment in her work. Her life was deeply enriched by her many friends, extended family, and Christian Service on many levels. Pat and Leo cherished their time together at their home, their cottage on Pickerel Lake in Newaygo, their winter retreat in Florida, and during their many travels. Even as the world changed—from no electricity to smartphones and Zoom calls—Pat and Leo marveled at modern life while holding firm to their values of faith, simplicity, and community. Their hope for future generations was clear: a strong foundation in faith, a good education, satisfying work, a happy home, and lasting health. On Monday, May 12, 2025, the family will receive visitors from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Arsulowicz Brothers Remembrance Chapel, 3525 Remembrance Rd NW, Walker, MI. On Tuesday May 13, 2025, Visitation will be from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m, then a Rosary will be prayed at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Wright, 18760 8th Ave, Conklin. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. with grandsons Fr. Michael O’Connor LC and Fr. Jacob Zemaitis presiding. Interment will take place at the parish cemetery immediately afterward. A luncheon in the parish hall will follow. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to offer expressions of sympathy are encouraged to make a memorial contribution to St. Joseph Christian Service, Lori’s Voice, or a charity of your choice.

Tributes

Patricia Eloise (Greiner) Rasch

October 19, 1930 - May 7, 2025