Patsy Dorrene Culhane

PATSY DORRENE CULHANE, age 74, of Waterville, passed away on the night of Tuesday, December 11, 2024, at Mayo Clinic Health Systems – St. Mary’s Campus in Rochester.

Born on September 20, 1950, in Faribault, Minnesota, she was the daughter of Perry and Clarice (Klang) Simons. Patsy graduated from Waterville High School. On December 6, 1969, she was united in marriage to Robert Culhane at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Faribault. Together, they raised two sons, Robert and Patrick, who were the center of her world. Her love and devotion extended beyond her sons to her seven grandchildren, who were the true joy of her life. Patsy was a devoted mother and grandmother, always present and offering unconditional love and support to her family at every stage of their lives.

Patsy’s career journey began at Humphrey Elevator, but after becoming a mother, she took time off to care for her family. She later returned to the workforce, working at Johnson Fishing, then at the MN Valley Action Council in Waseca. Patsy spent the remainder of her career at the Morristown Schools and South Central College, both in Faribault and Mankato, where she retired after many years of dedicated service. Her commitment to her work and the community left a lasting impact on those who knew her.

In 2000, at the age of 50, Patsy decided to further her education and enrolled at South Central College. She earned her degree with high honors, exemplifying her passion for learning and her unwavering determination. Patsy’s journey was an inspiration to those around her, proving that it is never too late to pursue your dreams.

Patsy had a zest for life and loved to travel, always eager to explore new places and create lasting memories. Whether it was a weekend getaway or a grand adventure, she cherished every opportunity to see the world with her loved ones. Her warm and sociable nature allowed her to easily make friends wherever she went. Patsy had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcomed and valued, and she loved spending time with family and friends, always ready with a kind word and a listening ear.

In her spare time, Patsy enjoyed playing bingo, gardening, and sewing. She was an exceptional seamstress, creating beautiful handmade items that were deeply cherished by her family. Her green thumb made her garden a vibrant and peaceful space, while her love for creating and nurturing filled her home with warmth. Patsy also had a special place in her heart for water skiing, an activity she loved sharing with her brother, Bob. The two of them spent many hours on the water, enjoying each other's company and creating lifelong memories. She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Waterville.

Patsy is survived by her husband of fifty-five years, Robert Culhane of Waterville; sons, Robert (Molly) Culhane of Waterville, Patrick (Gwen) Culhane of Waterville; seven grandchildren; siblings, Darlene (Roger) Adams of Waterville, Ronald Simons of Janesville. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; grandchildren, Kaden and Ethan Culhane; brothers, Richard and Robert Simons.

Visitation will be from 4 – 7 PM on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at the Waterville Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday. 

Mass of Chrisitan Burial will be at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Waterville. Interment at Calvary Cemetery will be at a later date.