Patti A. Neracher, of Portage, Michigan, passed away Sunday, April 21, 2019 at the age of 63.
Patti was born August 6, 1955 in Manistee, Michigan a daughter of Richard and Marlene (Frederickson) Abramczyk. She thrived in her hometown, moving in 1990 to continue her life's journey in Portage, Michigan.
Her loving mother, Marlene Frederickson, and loving father and stepmother Richard and Sharon 'Sherry' Abramczyk cleared the path for Patti. Until they meet again, Patti is survived by her husband of twenty-four years, Doug Neracher of Portage, MI, daughter and son in-law Jennie and Tim Schippers and grandchildren Ally and Egan of Kalamazoo, MI, sisters Valerie Kroeck of Cuba, MO and Carol Benforado of Shelby, NC, sister and brother in-law Lona and Rick Goodrich of Alden, MI, brother and sister in-law Richard 'Butch' and Josie Abramczyk of Forest City, NC. Several nieces and nephews also survive her.
Patti was a remarkable cook and enjoyed preparing the most amazing meals for her family and friends. If ever you had the pleasure of sitting in on any of these feasts, whether for Sunday dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or gathering for a holiday, you were sure to have experienced great food, timeless traditions, and unforgettable memories.
"Consider it done" if Patti was planning any event for you. She had a distinct way of adding a special touch to anything with her creativity. From a "girls night out" to her daughter's wedding there would be no detail left unnoticed. If fortunate enough to participate in her events you were sure to have witnessed amazing table arrangements, tasteful party favours, and gifts wrapped with homemade bows.
Gardening was a simple pleasure Patti relished. From flowers to vegetables you were sure to find something new each year on her grounds. Rainbows of colors would bloom all season long and all would marvel at the size of her tomatoes. Should you have received anything from her gardens you were sure to taste something delicious or have the chance to fill a vase with elegance.
Patti loved to celebrate. From weddings to family reunions you would rarely find her just sitting and observing. If there was a dance floor, watch out! Hoping you were one of the lucky ones who got pulled out when "Taking Care of Business" filled the room to start the Alligator dance. If not the Alligator, perhaps she pulled you out of your seat to join "The Locomotion". Let us not forget Neracher reunions in Kalkaska where you would hear Patti's laughter, witness her croquet skills, and be entertained by her karaoke performances. There were so many moments when Patti was the life of the party, socializing and doing it in style!
Patti will be remembered as a positive force, with a driven attitude, and an infectious smile. She was our pearl, our rare gem that we admired, cherished, and loved. She was a daughter, a granddaughter, a sister, a wife, a mother, an aunt, a grandmother, a friend, and a coworker. She was so many things, to so many people. Our days will not be the same without her presence and there will not be a day when we won't miss her positive attitude, her laughter, and her smile.
Honoring Patti's request, no service will be held. For all who knew Patti, take time to celebrate her life. Gather and toast to her successes, prepare a spread of food to share with your family and friends to start your own traditions, dance where you will be seen, or dare to grow a garden of tomatoes that will live up to her expectations.