Patricia “Patti” Ann Messling-Wysocki, 75, of Fox Lake, unexpectedly passed away Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at home.  She was born November 12, 1949, in Springfield, IL, to the late Alvin and Kathryn (nee Felker) Messling.

Patti grew up in Springfield and was a graduate of Ursuline Academy.  She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from Illinois State University and a master’s degree in special education from Northern Illinois University.  Patti really loved kids and had a 37-year career as a special-education teacher with Northwest Suburban Special Education Organization (NSSEO).  In retirement, she was a substitute teacher at St. Bede Catholic School, Ingleside.

Patti enjoyed gardening, swimming, baking, crocheting, and arts and crafts.  Above all, she loved to spend time with her family—especially her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Stephen Wysocki; children, Christopher (Sara) Wysocki, Richard (Megan) Wysocki, and Marie Wysocki; grandchildren, Cullen, Marlee, Charlotte, and Bennett; and nieces and nephew, Jennifer Komnick, Janelle Komnick, Alia Messling, and Justin Komnick.

In addition to her parents, Patti was preceded in death by her sisters, Mary K. Messling and Jeannie (John) Komnick.

Visitation Sunday, December 8, from 2-6 p.m., at Hamsher Lakeside Funerals & Cremations, 12 N. Pistakee Lake Rd., Fox Lake.  A Mass celebrating Patti’s life will be held at 10 a.m., Monday, December 9, at Our Lady of the Lakes-St. Bede Church, 36455 N. Wilson Rd., Ingleside.  All are invited to go directly to the church.  Interment will be private in Calvary Cemetery, Springfield.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Patti’s memory can be made to the children’s relief fund at UNICEF and will be greatly appreciated.