Patrick Christian Willemsen

Patrick was born to George and Frances Willemsen in Detroit on December 22, 1931. He was the youngest of six siblings; Herman, George, Richard, Johanna, and his twin Anna Marie, affectionately called Teresa by the Willemsen clan. As a child, he also spent several summers with his Aunt Kate and Uncle John in Wisconsin, times he thoroughly enjoyed.   He attended St.Joseph Catholic High School and shortly after graduation, met the love of his life, Patricia Wiebelhaus. They enjoyed a large group of friends through their church choir. During his 21 month hospital stay for tuberculosis, Patricia continued to regularly visit and she soon won him over.   They were married in 1956 and soon welcomed their first of eight children, Christopher, closely followed by Elizabeth, Thomas, James, Patrick Jr., William, Paul, and Peggy.   Patrick worked for 30 years for the City of Detroit Tax Department. After retiring in 1986, he joined Patricia in their business venture, PIP Printing. After selling the business, Patrick served in many volunteer roles. He was a longtime usher at his church, and supported Patricia in her passions, New Hope, the MS Society and MS Homes of Michigan.   Patrick was always in the background, behind the scenes, holding up the fort. He was always available to both family and friends alike, playing chauffeur to his friends as they gave up driving. He will always be remembered for his ready smile, Bob Newhart-like calm demeanor, and giving spirit. He was generous to a fault with both his time and resources. He was a wonderful authentic man.   He will be greatly missed by his children, 18 grandchildren; Adam, Jared, Danny, Jennifer, Stefanie, Candice, Abby, Evan, Michael, Olivia, Chloe, Luke, John, Jacob, Hannah, Matthew, Isabel, and Nasri and eight great-grandchildren; Vincent, Willem, Tommy, Emma, Maddie, Finley, Troy, and Michael.   Visitation for Patrick will be held Friday, January 12, 2018 from 1:00 - 8:00 PM with a Rosary Service at 7:00 PM at Manns Family Funeral Home, 17000 Middlebelt, Livonia 48154.   Patrick will be In-State for final visiting on Saturday, January 13, 2018 from 1:00 until the time of the Funeral Mass at 2:00 PM at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 19800 Pembroke, Detroit 49219.   In lieu of flowers, donations to the National MS society would be appreciated. The website is:  http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Events/MIGChapter?pxfid=543240&fr_id=7429&pg=fund