Born on August 3, 1959, in Wyandotte, Michigan, Pat was the beloved daughter of Amos and Augustine “Augie” Nelson. She grew up in Ecorse, Michigan, where she developed the strong work ethic, compassionate heart, and fierce loyalty that would define her throughout her life.
Pat’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her family. She was the devoted and loving wife of Larry Burgess, with whom she built a life centered on love, faith, and family. Together they raised five children, whom she loved with all her heart: Todd (Rayna) Burgess, Shane (Julia) Burgess, Amber (Brandon) Hoadley, Michael (Jessica) Burgess, and Mark (Becky) Burgess. Pat is also survived by her loyal dogs Tucker and Crystal, and her Kitty (named Kitty).
She was a proud and loving grandmother to Raquel Burgess, Garrett Hoadley, Vanessa Burgess, Kali Burgess, Thomas Hoadley, Kaden Burgess, Logan Burgess, Isaac Burgess, Conner Burgess, Olivia “Livvie” Burgess, Liam Burgess, and Emersyn Burgess, each of whom brought her immense happiness. She also carried forever in her heart her grandson, Dwayne Burgess, who preceded her in death before birth.
Pat is also survived by her sisters, Janis Harowski and Pamela Haupt (Mike Forest); her mother-in-law, Trilby Burgess; her brothers-in-law, Rodney (Sharon) Burgess and Billy (Donna) Burgess; her lifelong friend, Mary Ann Milanovich; and many loving nieces and nephews, along with extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by her compassion, and unwavering support.
In early 2005, Pat and Larry made the move to Central Illinois, embracing a new chapter together while continuing the life they had built as a family. They eventually settled into a cozy country home in Lewistown, Illinois—a place that fulfilled Pat’s lifelong dream of peaceful country living. Surrounded by the quiet beauty she loved, it became the home where she made countless memories with her family and, ultimately, the place where she peacefully passed away.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Amos and Augustine “Augie” Nelson; her brothers, Gary Nelson, Pete Nelson, Jim Nelson, and Rick Nelson; her beloved grandson, Dwayne Burgess; her nephew, Keith Harowski; her father-in-law, Rev. Floyd Burgess; her brothers-in-law, Dougie Burgess and Danny Burgess, her sister-in-law, Brenda Meek, and Brenda’s husband, Kenny Meek; and her niece and nephew, Bridgette Meek and Greg Burgess.
A hardworking and devoted mother, Pat dedicated herself to providing for her family while raising her five children. She worked hard to help provide for her family and found great purpose in being a mother and caregiver. She had an extraordinary love for animals and spent many years working as a professional dog groomer. Her compassion extended beyond her profession through her volunteer work with the humane society, where she lovingly fostered puppies and kittens that were too young or too sick to be adopted, giving countless animals a second chance at life.
Pat was known as a fierce protector of the innocent. Whether standing up for those who couldn’t stand up for themselves or opening her home to animals in need, she lived a life marked by compassion, generosity, and unconditional love.
Above all, Pat was a faithful Christian whose faith sustained her throughout life’s joys and hardships. Her family finds comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and with the loved ones who went before her. Though her presence on earth will be deeply missed, they rejoice in the promise of eternal life and the hope that they will see her again.
Pat will be deeply missed by her devoted husband, her children, grandchildren, sisters, extended family, dear friends, and her beloved pets. Her love, compassion, and unwavering faith will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
In accordance with Pat’s wishes, no funeral or memorial services will be held.
For those who have asked how they can help, the family would be deeply grateful for any contributions toward the costs of Pat’s end-of-life care, cremation, and burial. We will also make a donation to a local animal shelter in her honor. Donations may be made to Larry Burgess through
PayPal: lburgess1956@gmail.com
Zelle: Larry Burgess - 309-326-8974
Cremation rites have been entrusted to Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory. Online condolences may be made at www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com
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