Jennifer M. (Martin) Patton

Jennifer Mary Patton, 52, of South Bend passed away on Saturday, June 12, at Saint Joseph Hospital, Mishawaka, with family members by her side.

            She was born in Bloomington on April 21, 1969, the daughter of Phyllis Martin and the late Bradford Martin. She is survived by her husband, Ronald, mother, Phyllis Martin, brother, Philip Martin (Portia Hein), nephew, Asa Hein-Martin, step-mother, Louise Martin, half-sister, Andrea Martin, step-son, Reshawn Patton and six grandchildren. She is also missed by her father-in-law, Ted Knudson, and her husband’s four siblings.

            Jennifer was a graduate of Bloomington High School North and Ball State University. In her growing-up years she traveled with her family to England and attended school there on two occasions. On graduating from college, she moved to South Bend where she met the love of her life, Ron Patton, who, like her, was disabled and in a wheel-chair. They had many happy years, good times together, and were to celebrate their silver wedding anniversary next January. Jennifer had a strong religious faith and was a member of the Servant of the Street church.  She maintained several important spiritually-based friendships on-line and liked to sing along and listen to services on the internet. 

            Jennifer was active in volunteer work. For several years, she enjoyed serving as a greeter for visitors at Saint Joseph Hospital. She most of all loved her association with the South Bend animal shelter, Pet Refuge, and especially with the cats. She happily wheeled herself into a room full of cats, some of whom might perch on her shoulders or backpack or purr contentedly as she stroked them in her lap. At home, her cats, Maya and Kenny, were treasured family members.

            Jennifer was a warm and caring person with a sharp mind, and a truly amazing memory. When someone in the family was trying to remember a past event, she could always be relied on to provide the details. She was skilled in both French and Spanish, read widely, loved puzzles, and crocheting.

            The family would like to express gratitude for the support Jennifer received from doctors, nurses, and Aids. Her Aids became her friends. Some stayed in touch long after they had moved on to other positions.             Contributions in memory of Jennifer’s life may be made to Pet Refuge, 4626 S. Burnett Drive, South Bend, IN 46614.

            A gathering of family and friends will take place at Zahoran Funeral Home, South Bend, on Saturday, June 19, from 2-4pm. It will be followed by a Celebration of Life at 4pm.

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