Dr. Patricia ‘Patty' Schupfer

Dr. Patricia "Patty" Schupfer, 68, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, in Naperville, Illinois. A distinguished anesthesiologist with a passion for life, travel and human connection, Patty was known for her warmth, intelligence and vibrant free spirit.

Professional life and education: A proud daughter of Iowa, Patty graduated from high school in Spencer and, after high school, went on to pursue her studies at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. She continued her academic journey at the University of Iowa, where she earned her Doctor of Medicine degree. Patty distinguished herself as an accomplished anesthesiologist, with notable academic achievements including co-authoring a significant study in the Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal in 1986. She was also a co-author of a chapter in an anesthesiology textbook. Her professional path led her through several major cities, including Denver, Seattle, Chicago and Iowa City, where she made significant contributions to health care.

Family and personal life: Patty was born to Jennie Rose and Robert F. Schupfer, on Sept. 20, 1956, in Spencer. Both of them preceded her in death. She is survived by her sister Cathy Glasson (Matt Glasson), her niece Sarah Payne (Aaron Payne), her great niece Elise Feichtner, uncles and aunts and many cousins. Her legacy of love and connection will continue through her family.

Passions and interests: An avid traveler and culture enthusiast, Patty's life was characterized by an insatiable curiosity and love for experiencing the world. Throughout her life, she developed deep and meaningful friendships, forming close-knit communities of companions who shared her love of conversation, cultural experiences, and social engagement. These friendships became a cherished part of her life, providing support, joy and companionship. She was known for her ability to connect with people, hosting impromptu gatherings, sharing stories, and maintaining an active and vibrant social life that brought her tremendous happiness. She will be deeply missed by her many friends.

Final years: For the past decade, Patty resided at The Auberge (memory care) in Naperville, Illinois, where she continued to live life fully and maintain her characteristic warmth and engagement with those around her.

Services: Funeral services will be at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, 701 S. Eola Rd, Aurora, Illinois 60504 on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. Memorial visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial following at 10:30 a.m.

Inurnment will be in Quasqueton Cemetery in Quasqueton.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Patty’s memory may be made to Doctors Without Borders www.doctorswithoutborders.org or UNICEF-USA www.unicefusa.org/how-help/donate or to a charity that reflects Patty's passions.

Patty will be remembered for her professional excellence, her love of life and the profound impact she had on those fortunate enough to know her.

Arrangements by Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 44 S. Mill St., Naperville, IL 60540.

For more information, please visit www.friedrich-jones.com or call 630-355-0213.