Patricia A. Sobehrad, 96, passed away Thursday, July 9, 2026, in Suttons Bay, Michigan.

Patricia was born May 19, 1930, to John and Edwina (Gillaum) Ritsema in Bay City, Michigan. She attended high school in Sebewaing, Michigan. Upon graduation from North Central College in Naperville, Illinois, she entered nursing school in Chicago, Illinois, and she received her Registered Professional Nursing certification in January 1955.

On July 11, 1953, in Sebewaing, Michigan, Patricia married Jarold Sobehrad. Together they raised three children.

Patricia's nursing career included, as she fondly recalled, "pounding the floors at hospitals," as well as serving as a visiting nurse, working as a public school nurse, working as head nurse at a young men's military academy, and teaching practical nursing. Upon retiring from teaching, one of her students shared this tribute:

"Thanks so much for this semester. You've taught me so much, and I've learned so very many important skills. You made the atmosphere for learning enjoyable, and I am going to miss your instruction and helpful guidance. You are concerned for each and every class member...you care enough to put your whole self into your teaching."

Upon retirement, Patricia and Jarold settled in Northport, Michigan, where they built their home in 1997. Patricia carried her nursing compassion and heart for serving others to Trinity Church of Northport, where she was a founding member of the Call to Care Ministry. Through this ministry, she visited homebound individuals, bringing comfort, friendship, and hope to those who needed it most.

Patricia's ties to Leelanau County began in 1951, when her parents built a small cottage on Lake Isle Avenue in Glen Arbor, Michigan. Her family vacationed there almost every year, swimming in Sleeping Bear Bay, climbing the dunes, canoeing on the Crystal River, and gathering around beloved beach fires.

Patricia cherished gathering with friends to play cards and found great joy in celebrating special occasions with cards, phone calls, and birthday dinners shared with family and friends. She was fiercely loyal to those she loved and treasured lifelong friendships. Her favorite pastimes included watching Jeopardy! (she knew all the answers!) and Wheel of Fortune, reading voraciously, and solving crossword puzzles.

Patricia is survived by her sister, Rosemary (Dale) Zimmerman, Naperville, Illinois; her children, Pamela (David) Stefancic of South Bend, Indiana, John (Susan) Sobehrad of Northport, Michigan, and son-in-law James Lane of Northport, Michigan; her grandchildren, Regina Stefancic, Jerry Stefani, Lane and Drake Sobehrad, and Erica Green; and her great-grandchildren, JD, Lola, John Curtis, William, James Ashton, and Jasper James.

Patricia A. Sobehrad was preceded in death by her husband, Jarold; her parents; and her brother, John. Her daughter, Patricia L. Sobehrad, passed away suddenly on July 15, 2026.

A Memorial Service will be held at Trinity United Church of Christ in Northport, Michigan, on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are encouraged to consider Heifer International.