Patricia Ann Rupe of The Villages, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2026, at the Casa Bella Hospice House. She was born on November 22, 1941, in Jackson, Michigan, to Anne and Howard Bentz.

Pat’s early life was shaped by her family’s many moves across the country as her father, Howard, served as a respected leader and manager within the McLellan/McCrory’s retail chain of Five and Dime stores. From Rhode Island to Nebraska, and through memorable years in Jackson, Michigan; Westerly, Rhode Island; Clinton, Iowa; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Chicago, Illinois, Pat developed a resilient spirit, a love of community, and a deep appreciation for the bonds of family. She shared these experiences with her brother, Jonathan Bentz of Spokane, Washington, with whom she remained close throughout her life.

Pat graduated from Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois, in 1959, and went on to pursue her calling in nursing. She earned her nursing degree from the Rush Presbyterian–St. Luke’s School of Nursing in Chicago, becoming a Registered Nurse—a role that perfectly matched her compassion, steadiness, and dedication to helping others.

Her nursing career spanned many specialties and regions of the country. Pat served in the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, and in bedside nursing in both Lincoln, Nebraska, and Southern California. She later devoted herself to public health and early childhood development in Clay County, West Virginia, before concluding her career in senior care in Ohio, where her warmth and skill made a lasting impact on countless patients and families.

After many years of moving during their early married life, Pat and Joe settled in Crystal Lake, Illinois, where they lived for more than 35 years. There, they became deeply woven into the fabric of the community, forming lifelong friendships. Pat volunteered extensively at the Sherman Ambutal, offering her time and compassion to those in need. She was also a local business owner for over 20 years, touching the lives of countless people through her work, her kindness, and her steady presence.

Pat had many special furry friends throughout her life, each bringing joy and companionship to her home. She is also survived by her faithful companion, Scooby, who has been lovingly adopted by friends.

Pat was a proud and fiercely protective mother, always deeply interested in what her only son was doing and where he was in the world. This love and concern extended naturally to her grandchildren and step‑grandchildren, whose well‑being she followed with the same devotion and interest.

Pat is survived by her husband of 62 years, Gary “Joe” Rupe, also of The Villages, Florida; her son, Eric Rupe of Parker, Colorado, and his wife, Maria Hush; her three grandchildren, Jenna Rupe‑Nelson and Tommy Nelson of Littleton, Colorado, Thomas Rupe and Michelle Rupe of York, Pennsylvania, and Jonathan Rupe of Galway, New York; and her great‑grandchild, Adler Rupe. She is also survived by her brother, Jonathan. Pat was preceded in death by her parents, Anne and Howard Bentz.

A celebration of life luncheon for Pat’s friends in The Villages will be held on May 24. A separate celebration of life for her family will take place at a later date to be determined.

Pat (Mom & Nana) will be remembered greatly for her love of family, her resilience and adaptability throughout her life, and perhaps most significantly, her loyalty to those around her. She will be deeply missed by the many people whose lives she touched with her kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion.

Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.