Patricia Brusca

Patricia Brusca (nee Harding) 98, went to her heavenly home on January 31, 2024 after a brief illness.

Pat was born September 25, 1925 to William and Lillie Harding in Minocqua, Wisconsin. Pat was raised along with six siblings by a single mother in the North Woods of Wisconsin. Growing up during the Depression without a father proved difficult, but the family survived by a hard -working mother and older brothers who hunted for food. Pat graduated from Arbor Vitae- Woodruff High School. She loved sports and competed in basketball with her high school playing against the Lac Du Flambeau Native American tribe. She never forgot her humble beginnings in northern Wisconsin and traveled there often with family to spend time with her mother and siblings.

Pat moved to Milwaukee after high school and secured employment with the Defense industry during the war. She found her way to Madison and waitressed at Lombardino's restaurant. There she met her husband Joe, who had just returned from the war serving in the Navy's Pacific Theater. The union last nearly 72 years and they were blessed with four children.

Pat was a homemaker and was introduced to the Italian culture and the Greenbush neighborhood where Joe grew up. She was immersed in Wisconsin sports and was a lifelong fan of Badger football and basketball, the Packers, Bucks and Brewers. She was an enthusiastic spectator and conversed with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren on the latest developments in the sporting world. Pat also participated in hiking, cross country skiing and played volleyball and golf well into her 80's. Additionally Pat loved to dance both ballroom and tap. She and Joe traveled the world. Her favorite places were Ireland, Venice and Jerusalem.

In the latter years, Pat served the community at Saint Mary's Adult Day Care Center. She was a devout Catholic and her faith was evident in all she said and did. Pat was an avid reader and rabid card player, especially Euchre. She made many friends at Sauk Gardens Senior living apartments and most recently Home Again assisted living in Waunakee.

Pat is survived by her sons Joseph (Susan), Michael (Linda) and daughters Laura Cross (Stephen) and Debra Gunderson (Alan), 10 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews and friends.  Pat was preceded in death by her husband Joe, and her six siblings.

Pat will be remembered for her positive and cheerful attitude, non-judgmental persona, love of family and love of life. She was an inspiration to all on how to age gracefully.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Home Again Assisted Living for their compassionate care of our mother.

A celebration of Pat's life will take place at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 401 S. Owen Drive, Madison, WI 53705 on Thursday, February 8, 2024. Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. A private family entombment will follow the Mass at Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Pat would like you to consider a donation to St Jude's Children's Hospital: stjude.org or Agrace hospice: agrace.org.

 Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com

Cress Center

6021 University Ave. Madison

(608) 238-8406