Wrightstown teacher ‘retires’ into ministry

July 12, 2018

By Ed Byrne The Brillion News

WRIGHTSTOWN – For 32 years, Kathy Patschke was a physical education teacher at Wrightstown Elementary School. But even then, her passion went well beyond the curriculum.

In a room off the small gym at the elementary school, Patschke maintained a closet known for its collection of children’s shoes and other clothing items.

Patschke made the rounds of rummage sales and seemed to always be buying worn-but-not-worn-out shoes for her closet.

All of them ended up on the feet of needy children – kids who needed better shoes, for sure, but also needed to know someone cared about them.

So it should surprise few people that when Patschke retired in June of 2011, she embarked on a new adventure, one that allowed her to give more time and attention to her faith.

“I continue to substitute teach during the school year in the Wrightstown district,” Patschke said. “And I also enjoy camping when I can, traveling, visiting with friends and family, fishing, and growing in deeper relationship with my Lord and Savior by participating in various Bible study groups.”

Actually, Patschke gave a great deal of attention to her faith life.

“The call to pursue ministry kind of fell into my lap,” she said. “The church where I attend now started offering the classes from The International School of Ministry.”

At first, she figured she would take a couple of courses and audit them, without any academic credit.

“As I continued with the classes, I realized that the Lord placed me in those classes for a purpose. That purpose was to learn more about who He is and what His desire is for my life,” Patschke said.

Her life had been growing in that direction for quite a while.

Please see the complete story in the July 12, 2018 edition of The Brillion News.