Patricia Jean Hagert, age 77, passed away peacefully on Friday July 10, 2026, with
loved ones watching over her.
Pat was born on October 29, 1948, in Abrams, Wisconsin; to the late Erving and
LeaBeth Ellner. She learned love, humility, tenacity and a bit of stubbornness from Erv
and LeaBeth. Their dedication to family and hard work helped to form Pat’s drive to
succeed and love for her family, their memory was ever present in her actions and
caring for others.
From owning her own beauty salon, to being a bookkeeper for multiple businesses,
taking night classes to learning accounting, Pat always made sure the job was done
right, and every penny was accounted for in the books. When asked to help a family
member, friend or co-worker, the answer was always “What can I do”. Pat was
predeceased by her partner for the last 26 years, Paul Anderson, earlier this year. He
was the love of her life, and they were steadfast to each other. Together they virtually
rebuilt the home Paul’s father left and ran a mobile home park for over 20 years. They
worked hard together and played and loved even more.
Pat was proud of every little project to make a humble home a bit better and more
appealing. Sharing stories and pictures of the foibles, injuries and damage done during
the projects. Pat was multitalented, crafty, techy and inquisitive. She always had some
type of craft to keep her mind and body busy. From sewing to making stained glass to
3D printing, she learned through reading every instruction and trial and error. Each task
with an end goal to make something for others after she perfected the skill.
She was most proud of her family and devoted to loving and nurturing everyone. She
told stories from all those that visited her and she visited. There was ever present joy
when retelling a story, even if it was for the third time or more. When two family
members or friends met for the first time, they already knew something special about
the other. Her guidance, help and love for her direct and extended family have helped
everyone enjoy a little better life in some way. To many the debt of her love could never
be repaid.
Pat is survived by her son, Carl (Rick) Vest and his wife Kristen. She also leaves
behind her grandchildren, Conner Vest and Hannah Vest; as well as great-
granddaughter Charlotte (Conner). She is further survived by her sister, Barbara Wilson
(Stuart), brothers Dennis Ellner (Patsy) and Thomas Ellner (Jody), as well as many
loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
Pat will be remembered for her undying love, strength, and devotion. Her memory will
forever remain in the hearts of her family and the many lives she touched.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that a donation be made to Hospice of Marion

County, in recognition of the love and care they provided Pat and Paul, or to a favorite
charity of your choice in her memory.