Patricia "Patsy" A. Brandstatter

Patricia “Patsy” Brandstatter was born on July 8, 1940, in Buffalo, New York to Albert L. and Martha B. Edwards. She moved to East Lansing as a child and spent the rest of her life there. A 1958 graduate of East Lansing High School, she spent the summer after graduation skating in the Ice Capades in Las Vegas, Nevada. She then attended St. Mary’s College before returning home to marry the love of her life, Art Brandstatter Jr., in June of 1961.

Patsy was the heart of her family and community—a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and caregiver. She and Art built a home filled with love, laughter, and an open-door policy that welcomed all. Whether it was neighborhood kids, visiting athletes, foster children, or friends in need. Patsy had a way of making everyone feel like family. Her home was a gathering place for every occasion, from lively Sunday dinners to holiday celebrations that spanned generations. She had an extraordinary ability to make hosting large crowds seem effortless, always ensuring there was plenty of food, warmth, and laughter.

Her greatest joy was her family. Patsy and Art raised six children: Patrick (Jane), Brigit (Mark) Pendred, Katie Brandstatter Shelton, Nora (Matt) Longthorne, Brian (Kristina), and Brody (Heather). She was a proud and loving grandmother to 19 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her three sisters, one brother, and many nieces and nephews. Her legacy of love, generosity, and faith lives on in each of them.

In addition to being a dedicated homemaker, Patsy was an accomplished figure skating instructor and hockey coach at Michigan State University. She volunteered countless hours to the Junior League, led Girl Scouts, and was a talented artist. She also opened her home to foster children and foreign exchange students. In 1983, she joined Art in the insurance business before deciding to pursue her passion for education. She earned her degree in Elementary Education from Michigan State University in 1987, followed by a Master’s and an Education Specialist Degree from Wayne State University.

For 27 years, she dedicated herself to the shaping of young minds as a 5th grade teacher in Hartland, Michigan. She was known for her innovative teaching style, boundless energy, and deep commitment to her students. She founded the 5th grade camp program, served on the MEAP development team, and was a respected advocate for her fellow teachers.

Faith was a cornerstone of Patsy’s life. A devout Catholic, she was deeply involved in her church, living out her faith through service, kindness, and an unwavering belief in the power of love and community. She instilled these values in her family, leading by example with her selflessness and compassion.

Patsy’s life was a testament to love, faith, and generosity. She leaves behind a family and community forever enriched by her warmth, strength, and unwavering spirit.

Visitation for Patsy will take place on Wednesday March 12, 2025, at the Gorsline Runciman East Lansing Chapel, 1730 E. Grand River Ave. East Lansing, Michigan from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with a Rosary being prayed at 7:00. The Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 955 Alton Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823 at 12:00 PM, with the family receiving friends one hour prior to Mass. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Patsy's memory may be made to Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, 1210 W Saginaw St., Lansing, Michigan 48915 US, https://secure.qgiv.com/for/spaheasys/; and Greater Lansing Food Bank, 5600 Food Court, Bath, Michigan 48808 US, https://greaterlansingfoodbank.org/.