Bridget Patricia Thatcher

Bridget Patricia (Haley) Thatcher, 72, of Winona, passed away Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at Winona Health with her family at her side.Bridget was born March 16, 1939 to Paul and Lillian (Fimian) Haley in Simpson, Minnesota. She attended school in Simpson, Dacota, and St. Felix in Wabasha, MN. On March 27, 1956, she married Jerry Thatcher, and they had three children.Bridget wore many hats throughout her working days. Starting in the early days as a waitress and cook at the Oaks in Minnesota City. She also worked at the Heights Academy in the kitchen and later in the maintenance department. She was one of the first women in Minnesota to get her boiler's license. She was an interior designer, seamstress, wonderful cook and baker.Mom could turn trash to treasure with sewing material, a little paint, and a throw pillow to match. We all cherish mementos of her handiwork. Bridget's door was always open with a hot pot of coffee and a warm welcome to all.Our mother was only a call away when you needed her. She was a great listener and had a generous heart. Bridget was loved by all and will be deeply missed by her husband, Jerry; daughters, Sherry Lynn (Dennis) Russeau and Becky Schulz; son, Brendan Thatcher; grandchildren, Adrian (Amy) Russeau, Evie (Tony) Simon, Andy (Emma) Fort; great-grandchildren, Andre Russeau, Jaiden and Alex Simon, Aiden and Garrett Fort; beloved sister, Betty Jane (Leroy) Rick; Special nephew and niece, Scott (Ilona) and Tamara Rick and their children Nicole and Dustin; many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Lillian; brothers, Jerry and Sonny Haley.Grandma Bridget loved and was extremely proud of her grandkids and great-grandkids. If you needed proof of her love for them, she always had pictures to show you. Her joys were family gatherings, home cooked meals, and leftovers for everyone. You never left hungry at Mom's house.Mom-We will miss you and cherish your memories forever.Although you can't be with usWe're truly not apartUntil my final breath I takeYou're living in my heart.We love you.Memorial Tribute will be held from 4-8pm on Monday, February 6, 2012 at Hoff Funeral & Cremation Service-Hansen Goodview Chapel. Interment will take place at a later date.Please share a memory of Bridget with her family, sign the online guestbook, and view her video tribute when it becomes available at www.hofffuneral.com.
Tribute video can be found at: videos.lifetributes.com/280691