Patricia Rae Molling

Patricia “Patti” Rae Molling, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and beloved friend of so many, passed away on August 30, 2026, at the age of 83.

Patti was born Patricia Rae Fritsch on January 23, 1943. She married her high school sweetheart, Orville Molling, on October 15, 1966, and together they built a life centered around family, friendship, generosity, and an open door.

Patti was the proud mother of Bill (Melissa) Molling, Paul (Tara) Molling, Joe (Kristen) Molling, Dave (Heather) Molling, Neil (Cortney) Molling, and Liz (Brian) Mansky. Their family also grew to include Adam (Melissa) Aspenson, affectionately known as “son 6,” whom Patti and Orville loved as one of their own. Pastor Scott Skogen, lovingly known within the family as “son 6.75,” also became part of the Molling family. What began as a relationship with a pastor grew into a treasured friendship filled with faith, wisdom, laughter, comfort, and countless shared memories.

Being a mother came naturally to Patti, and she never limited that love to her own children. Over the years, countless friends found a second home with her. Her door was always open, there was always room for one more, and no one stayed a stranger for long. Whether you needed a meal, a place to gather, someone to listen, or simply somewhere you knew you belonged, Patti made room for you.

Patti loved bringing people together. Her homemade cooking was legendary, especially her chicken dumpling soup and spaghetti and meatballs. Her kitchen was often at the heart of the gatherings she loved so much. Large family dinners, Wednesday-night meals, time spent with neighbors, and vacations with close friends all gave her what she valued most—good food, conversation, laughter, and time with people she loved.

Few things brought Patti more joy than her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was the proud grandmother of Megan (Sam) Dose, Evan (Jill) Molling, Kristan (Gavin) Buergi, Taylor Molling, Tristan Molling, Landon Molling, Macy Molling, Abe (Mallory) Molling, Cooper Molling, Tess Molling, Abby Molling, Madi Molling, and Lila Molling; and the proud great-grandmother of Juniper Dose, Wrenly Molling, Beau Molling, Tucker Molling, and Ella Buergi.

Patti was more than a grandmother who loved her grandchildren—she was a grandma who was always present. She hosted countless sleepovers, cheered from the sidelines, sat in the stands, celebrated their accomplishments, and treasured the everyday moments just as much as the big ones. Her presence was a constant reminder that she was interested, invested, and always in their corner.

Family was at the center of Patti’s life, but her definition of family was wonderfully broad. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome, cared for, and included. She was generous and kind, quietly strong, and had just enough feisty spirit to make sure everyone knew exactly where she stood. Those who knew her best will remember her warmth, her humor, her loyalty, and the way she made people feel at home.

Patti was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Orville, who passed away on May 20, 2025; her mother and stepfather, Virginia and George Weber; her father, John Fritsch; her brother, Greg Fritsch; her niece, Nicole Fries; her sister-in-law, Laveta Molling; and her brothers-in-law, Russel Molling and George De Florian.

She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Kathleen De Florian, Ruth Molling, and Loretta Fritsch; her brother-in-law, Loren (Corrine) Molling; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The Molling family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the medical professionals at Mayo Clinic who cared for Patti, especially Drs. Beahm, Behn, Fitzgerald, and Krien, including Heidi Strainis and the many nurses who cared for her. Their kindness, compassion, and care meant more to Patti and her family than words can express.

A private service will be held to honor Patti’s life and legacy. The family invites friends and loved ones to join them for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Drugan’s Castle Mound, Holmen, Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be considered for the Carter Johnson Supplemental Needs Trust, North Presbyterian Church, the Boys & Girls Club of Greater La Crosse, the Orville and Patricia Molling Family Scholarship at UWL, or a charity of your choice.

Patti spent her life making room for others—at her table, in her home, and in her heart. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by the many people fortunate enough to have had a place in hers.