Patricia A. Richey

Patricia A. Richey, age 78 of Osceola, passed away at her home surrounded by her family.  She had suffered for several years with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. Pat was born at Elkhart General Hospital on January 7, 1942 to Don and Dorothy Fisher.  She was named Shelby Rose.  At the age of five, she was adopted by Fred and Matilda Beery of Bremen and at that time, became Patricia Ann Beery. On July 22, 1969, she married Dennis Richey in Las Vegas, Nevada.  They recently celebrated 51 years of marriage.

Surviving is her husband Dennis of Osceola and their children Lance (Brenda) Swank of Syracuse, Tiffani Swank of Berrien Springs, Michigan, Saige (Joe) Wooldridge of South Bend, Shawn (David) Woods and Niki Richey, both of Elkhart, Sharyn (Gerald) McDermott of Cape Coral, Florida and a special daughter Lisa Rouch of South Bend. Surviving as well are 15 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, 5 sisters in law, 3 brothers in law and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings Charles and Alvin Beery and Shirley Thomas.

Pat became a cosmetologist in 1959, opening her own salon in Bremen.  She continued to do hair her whole life.  In many cases, Pat served three generations of the same families.  She thoroughly enjoyed the strong friendships she developed with her clients over the years.

Pat’s real love was her family and she devoted her entire life to them as a mother and a grandmother, whether it was with the Brownies, the J-Ettes, the cheerleaders or coaching girl’s little league.

In 1983, she and Dennis started the Jimtown Clothing Fund to help the people of Jimtown; a program that continues today through the generosity of the Baugo Lion’s Club.

Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, the Richey family will host a celebration of Pat’s life at a later date.  Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Osceola has been entrusted with her care.

In her memory, donations may be made to the Baugo Lion’s Club or the Elkhart Humane Society.  To light a virtual candle in Pat’s memory, or leave a message of condolence, please follow the links provided on the Tribute Wall tab above.