Patricia A. Bracker

Patricia Ann Bracker, 91, passed away peacefully at home in Belding, Michigan, on August 30, 2026.Patricia was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on April 4, 1935, to Alfonzo Joseph Byrnes and Isabel (Graham) Byrnes, both of whom preceded her in death. She grew up in Belding, Michigan, where she was well known and loved by many.

Patricia shared 56 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Richard Bracker, who preceded her in death. Together they enjoyed their homes in Arizona and Florida and shared a life filled with family, friends, and many interests. Patricia was an exceptional student and graduated as valedictorian of Belding High School in 1953. She was active in school activities, including cheerleading and the debate team.

She attended Western Michigan College (now Western Michigan University) from 1953 to 1957, where she excelled academically, participated in intercollegiate debating, and was involved in cheerleading. She later had the extraordinary opportunity to study at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland on a Fulbright Scholarship. Patricia devoted her professional life to education and the arts, teaching elementary school in California, Maryland, and Michigan. She also shared her talents with adults by teaching yoga and painting.

Patricia was an accomplished artist and an avid reader. She loved yoga, painting, gardening, and especially the simple pleasures of nature. She took great delight in feeding the deer and birds that visited her backyard. She also had a special love for her dogs. Patricia and Richard were generous people who supported many causes and believed in giving back to others.

Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Alfonzo Joseph and Isabel Byrnes; her husband, Richard; and her brother, Aubin “Buster” Byrnes. She is survived by her sisters, Catherine (Byrnes) Eady and Judith (Byrnes) Parker, as well as several nieces and nephews and their families, along with other loved ones.

The family is deeply appreciative of the excellent care provided by Cornerstone Care and Faith Hospice Care.

Private interment services are being planned. Those who wish to express their sympathy through a memorial contribution on Pat’s name are encouraged to consider the Alvah N. Belding Memorial Library or the Ionia County Animal Shelter, both of which were organizations near and dear to Pat’s heart. For additional information, please call Verdun Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services at (616) 794-1300.