Patricia Manuel

Patricia Maree Manuel aged 79 passed away peacefully on June 17. Patricia was born in Kalamazoo MI 8/28/1946 to Robert Manuel and Maree Skoglund. She grew up with older brother Mike, younger brother Rocky, and close neighborhood friends, the Derhammers. Later, her family would expand to include younger sisters Bobbi Jo, and Linda and Julie Dolhay.

She married Jack Stewart and had 2 children, Jeff and Christy. She absolutely loved kids and doted on hers along with all her nieces and nephews whom she adored. She was a jogger and avid fan of paddleball, playing for many years and winning multiple tournaments. Her friendly demeanor, kindness, and sense of humor ingratiated her to many.

She later divorced and found a loving partner in Ron Gustum. They lived in Portage MI and later Vicksburg MI. They could be found working together on one of Ron's many projects, enjoying the outdoors with their German Shepherd, and spending vacations on the bluffs of Lake Michigan. She enjoyed life with Ron for over 30 years until he passed away in 2023.

Patricia radiated joy and kindness everywhere she went. Her son Jeff remarked that when he would go to businesses that she frequented, people there would tell him "We love your mom!"

In recent months her health had declined and when her best friend JoAnne asked her if she was feeling depressed she said no, because she was surrounded by wonderful people. Her beautiful spirit will be missed by many.

She will be cremated and her ashes spread alongside her son's, Jeff Stewart. She is survived by her brother Rocky Manuel (Houston, TX), sister Bobbie Jo Manuel (Gainesville FL), daughter and son-in-law Christy Stewart and John Phillips (Waunakee, WI). Donations can be made in her honor to Save the Children.