Feb. 15, 1947 — April 22, 2019

Patricia L. “Pat” Stansifer, 72, of Decatur, passed away on April 22, 2019, in Sebring, Florida.

A celebration of life gathering will be from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2019, at Newell Chapel, 83313 M51, Decatur. Time of sharing memories will be at 2 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Davis Elementary School first grade reading program or Hospice Highlands County, Florida. Those wishing to leave a condolence online may do so at newellchapel.com.

Pat was born on Feb. 15, 1947, to Robert and Wanietta (Hahn) Barbknecht in Gary, Indiana. She attended East Gary Edison High School. She continued her education earning her Bachelors and master’s degree in Education at Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana, and concluding her education with an advanced degree in Elementary Education from Western Michigan University.

On Aug. 9, 1969, Pat married the love of her life Tom Stansifer in East Gary, Indiana. Pat began her teaching career at Rockville Indiana High School. After moving to Michigan, she substitute taught in Marcellus, Dowagiac and Decatur school districts. She then taught first grade in Decatur Public Schools for many years. She was known for her collection of clowns and her advocacy for teaching reading. Pat was a devoted fan of Doctor Seuss and served “roast beast” to her students.

After retirement, she traveled to Camp Florida Resort, Lake Placid, Florida where she was active in water aerobics, camp activities, and enjoying the warm weather. She also helped Dortha Bensen teach swimming lesson at the beach. Pat was known for her beautiful smile and always enjoying life. Pat is survived by her husband of 49 years Tom Stansifer, of Decatur; children, Amanda Stansifer, of Battle Creek and Robert (Shelley) Stansifer, of Mattawan; grandson Noah Stansifer; step-grandchildren, Whitney, Beth and Sara; and brother Jim (Pam); sister-in-law Esther Hinshaw; nieces and nephews. Pat was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Wanietta Barbknecht and brother Raymond.