Patricia Irene Bauman, 77, longtime resident of Milton, died peacefully at home on Friday, May 9, 2014. She was born in Janesville on December 11, 1936, one of eight children born to Thomas and Beryl (Wendell) Stapleton. Pat graduated from Janesville High School in 1955. While working at Mercy Hospital during her senior year, she befriended a patient, Robert Bauman, whom she married on October 29, 1955. Throughout the years, she worked as a nurse's aide, retiring from Lakeland Nursing Home, Elkhorn. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church. One of Pat's favorite pastimes was to meet friends for coffee. She could be found just about every morning, until her health prevented her, at the Milton Family Restaurant. She also loved the companionship of her feline ladies, Tubbs and Squeak, whom provided great comfort. Pat loved gardening and watching the birds and especially loved seeing Mr. Peanut, the squirrel, come for his peanuts. She enjoyed watching NASCAR races and was also a big football fan, tuning in to watch the Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers each week.

Pat is survived by her husband of 58 years, Robert; three children: Deborah (Dan) Clark, Janesville; Theresa, Cape Coral, FL; and Karl (Tracy), Janesville; three grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren; three sisters: Mary Clark, Katherine Krupka and Veronica Greving; three brothers: Thomas, Robert and Michael Stapleton; sister-in-law, Mary (Cal) Mathews; many nieces and nephews; and a great-aunt, Mary Stapleton. She was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, James Stapleton. A private graveside service is planned.

Pat's family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to the nurses and staff at Agrace Hospice Care. With their help, she was able to remain at home surrounded by her family. They would also like to thank her long-time friend, Nancy Schultz, for her continued support and visits. Albrecht Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Milton 828 S. Janesville St., 608-868-2542 www.albrechtfuneralhomes.com