So it’s been said:  The best things in life can come in the smallest of packages.

Such was the case with Patte Marie (nee Strassener) Jacobson, 84, of Winona, Mn.  She was an eclectic mix of friendly, fearless feistiness and non-ending nurturing.  She was a classy lady, one who left the house put together from head to toe, ready to share her innate gifts from her wry sense of humor to her unmatched delicacies.  Cooking good food was just one of her famous talents.  She always made sure no one went hungry because as a little girl she often went hungry.  We will all remember her homemade apple pies, potato salad, mashed potatoes and potato soup.

But her most ardent foodie fans were her beloved grandchildren, Kayli, Avali and Boden, aka:  The Trio.   At age two, she had them “eating out of her hand” the likes of garlic sautéed zucchini!! There was no one she loved to spoil more.  She would routinely invite them to her home, one at a time, for supper and a sleep over to make sure she’d give each of them quality alone time with “Grandma J.”

Patte had a smart, sharp wit and was very astute with facts and figures.  She loved to share these gifts along the way.  At many stops, be it the doctor’s office, a restaurant, where ever she roamed, she’d tote along candy and pass a piece to others.  Some things, however, she would not pass along.  If asked her age, she would politely retort:  “A woman who tells her age will tell anything.” She loved bantering with folks and getting their attention.  If asked “How are you today, Patte?”  She’d often reply:  “Any day above ground is a good day.”

Patte loved her many years living and raising two sons and a daughter in Winona. Her favorite pastimes included golfing at the Winona Country Club with friends and family, gardening and entertaining (and cooking!) at her home.  But one day, her love was needed elsewhere.  When The Trio came along, she picked up and moved to Trempealeau to be near (and dear) and available to those she loved the most.

Patte loved to travel.  She loved the river and boating.  She loved to make everyone feel special, especially on their Birthday. While she was a tiny lady in stature, she had a robust, huge heart that brought happiness and joy to so many.

Patte Jacobson became an angel on Wednesday, December 5, 2018 after suffering a stroke.  Her family would like to extend its thanks and appreciation to all at Gundersen Health System especially the staff in palliative care for their kindness during her final days.

Patte is survived by her sons Steve Koch of Minnesota City, Tom (Lisa) Koch of Gainesville, Florida,  her daughter Jill Bratberg and grandchildren Kayli, Avali and Boden of Trempealeau, her brothers Harold (Bev) Strassener, Tom (Dorothy) Strassener and her sisters Mary (Del) Vecchio, Bonnie (Todd) Miller and Lynn (Rob) Waldemarsen. And, her special “second daughter,” Kelle Lang Staats. She was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Alan Bratberg.

A Celebration of Patte’s life will be held Wednesday, December 12, at Visions Event Center, 22852 County Rd. 17, Winona, MN from 11:00 to 2:00. Visitation is from 11:00 to 12:00 with a memorial service at 12:00. “Patte J” food will be served at 12:30. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.