Patricia McNelly

MADISON – Patricia C. McNelly, age 85, passed away on May 2, 2016 at Waunakee Manor Healthcare Center. Pat was born on July 18, 1930 in Stevens Point, WI to Miles and Emma Colligan. She graduated from Wautoma High School in 1946 as Valedictorian of her class. Pat met James McNelly while in Madison and they were married on December 30, 1950. Pat earned a scholarship from the University of Wisconsin and achieved a Master’s Degree in Nursing. She served the state for 30 plus years, the last 22 as Director of Nursing at Central Wisconsin Center, retiring in 1987. Pat was recognized as an expert in her field and served on many boards and advisory committees. She was awarded a World Health Organization Fellowship in 1970, traveling to eight countries lending her expertise. In 1985 she took a sabbatical from the state and spent a year in New Zealand consulting with hospitals and facilities for people with special needs. Following her retirement in 1987 Pat and Jim spent several years traveling the US and Canada in their RV. They made Bonita Springs, FL their home and enjoyed golfing and entertaining friends and family. They returned to Wisconsin in 2012 and resided at Waunakee Manor.

Pat is survived by her children, Stephen (Wendy), Thomas, William (Debra), Richard (Susie), and Mary (Al) Tedeschi; 8 grandchildren and several great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jim and sister Katy Wilson.

.A celebration of Pat’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 1, 2016 from 3-6 PM at Waunakee Manor, 801 S. Klein Drive, Waunakee. Please join Pat’s family and friends for a picnic to reminisce and celebrate her life. Memorials may be made to Waunakee Manor, UW School of Nursing or the charity of your choice. The full obituary appeared in the May 8th Wisconsin State Journal.

Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Waunakee Manor for the loving care they provided Mom and Dad. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com