Patricia Bremer

Patricia Louise Bremer, 87, passed away September 17, 2023 at Elysian Senior Homes in Lake City. Fondly known as "Patti" to her friends and “Mema” to her family, she was born on May 17, 1936 in Wabasha, MN. Her parents were Herman and Irene (Brunkow) Issendorf. After high school, she graduated from the Methodist-Kahler School of Nursing and worked as a nurse until her retirement.

She met the love of her life, Dave Bremer, in a dark movie theater. The two of them embarked on a remarkable 75-year journey together that included an apple orchard, exotic animals, five children and all sorts of adventures.  In June this year, they celebrated an extraordinary 65 years of marriage—a love story that remains an inspiration to us all. Patti loved flowers and her gardens were always a tapestry of colors and scents. Those fortunate enough to see her gardens or receive one of her gigantic hibiscus blossoms (tucked into a green grape for moisture) felt the love and care she poured into every flower. In addition to her love for gardening, Patti had a penchant for casinos. She seemed to have a Midas touch, and almost always left with more money than she started. Patti loved to sing; her music was an offering of love and faith and a source of inspiration for those who had the privilege of listening. Her rendition of The Lord’s Prayer is timeless. However, Patti's greatest love was her family. She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She cherished every moment spent with her family, which made us feel truly special. Her strength, kindness, generosity, and world-famous apple pie held the family together through generations. Mema will be missed terribly, but her legacy of love, laughter, and faith will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Patti is survived by her husband of 65 years, David Bremer; daughters, Lori (David) Ehlenfeldt, Merri (Scott Koon) Bremer; sons, Scott (Heather Mercer) Bremer, Kirk (Kate) Bremer; 8 grandchildren, Derek Bremer, Devin Bremer, McKenna Bremer, Daria Koon, Jason Ehlenfeldt, Jessi (Luke) Leichtnam, Michael Brumfield, Rob Swarn; 2 great grandchildren, Landon & Zoey Leichtnam;  four sisters, Mary Issendorf McLuen (Doug), Cleo Issendorf Grayden (Ed), Janet Issendorf Herrig (Chuck), Sharon Issendorf Brandt (Steve). She also survived by a number of nieces & nephews.

She is preceded in death by her daughter, Angela Lee Bremer; her parents, Herman, Irene; grandson, Jake Howlett; brothers, David Issendorf, David Prigge.

A memorial service celebrating Patti’s life will be held at Redeeming Grace Community Church on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Mark Woodward officiating, followed by a reception to share cherished stories and memories. The family requests that donations to St. Croix Hospice be considered in lieu of flowers. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery in Lake City. Visitation will be on Friday, October 13, 2023 from 5 to 7 pm at Mahn Family Funeral Home, Anderson Peterson Chapel in Lake City and one hour before the service at the church. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.