Patricia Agnes DuFresne

Patricia Agnes (Glockner) DuFresne "Pat", "Patty", age 82, of Lake Elmo, MN, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on April 1, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York to Robert and Gloria Glockner, Pat dedicated her life to caring for others, both personally and professionally. She worked for 40 years as a nurse, starting out at St John’s Hospital in St Paul, where her compassion, strength, and caring spirit touched countless lives. She later worked with the geriatric population in long-term care. She always said this was where her true work passion shined through. She was enthusiastic about mentoring the next generation of caregivers. Even after retirement, she continued to care deeply for everyone around her. She was preceded in death by her husband, David the love of her life; and brother, Larry Glockner.

Outside of nursing, Pat found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved tending to her vegetable garden, watching birds from her window (especially hummingbirds and cardinals), camping with family, swimming, and spending time hosting holiday gatherings and endless pool parties. She was rarely happier than when she was helping her husband, Dave, singing songs around the campfire, gathering for a competitive game of Scrabble, or listening to her favorite Johnny Mathis albums.

Pat was unwaveringly devoted to her family. Her greatest pride came from raising three children. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose kindness, wisdom, and endless “big heart” created lasting memories for everyone fortunate enough to know her. Pat’s home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and welcome to anyone.

She will be sadly missed by children, Heidi (Joe) Pucel, Becky (Mike) Mazzara, and Russ DuFresne; grandchildren, Thomas, Nathan, and Luke Pucel; Olivia and Anthony Alvarado; Lili and Dayne DuFresne; siblings, Barbara Wakefield, Lynn Glockner and Jim (Cindy) Glockner; many nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

A memorial service will be on Saturday, June 20th at Christ Lutheran Church 11194 – 36th Street North, Lake Elmo with visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M. Pat had been a member of this church for over 50 years. Private interment at Evergreen Memorial Gardens will take place at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The MS Society or Christ Lutheran Church. 

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.