Patti Nyberg

Resided in Gladstone, MI
Died February 5, 2025

Patti A. Nyberg, age 63, of Gladstone, passed away on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.

Patti was born on August 14, 1961 in Escanaba, the daughter of Wayne R. and Joyce A. (Farrell) Marmalick. She was baptized on September 10, 1961 at All Saints Catholic Church and lived a life of committed faith as a longtime member of the Covenant Church of Gladstone.

Patti was the fourth of six Marmalick children and was always a kid at heart. She would light up with joy and laughter while sharing stories of wonderful childhood memories, the trials and tribulations of sharing a cozy room with her three sisters, beating the neighborhood boys at sports or anything competitive (much to the satisfaction of her father), and playing hard all day with her siblings and friends in what she would refer to as the “best neighborhood.” One of the all time favorite stories was the time 11 year-old Patti registered herself for a nine mile running race from Van Cleve Park in Gladstone to Ludington Park in Escanaba. She won. And with little fanfare until the evening news, much to the surprise of Joyce and Wayne. Memories of little blonde haired, blue eyed, scrappy Patti Marmalick will live on forever with her siblings and neighborhood buddies at Michigan Avenue and 17th Street.

Patti graduated from Gladstone High School in 1979. On November 13, 1981, she married her high school sweetheart and love of her life, David L. Nyberg. Patti and Dave made their first home in Howell, Michigan, beginning their journey as a family with children David Matthew, Erik Lloyd, and Kaitlin Mae. In 1990 Patti and Dave moved back to their hometown of Gladstone and settled in at their new beloved home on Wisconsin Avenue where countless cherished memories were shared over the next thirty five years. Patti thrived and shined at her home. She had a true gift to make birthdays and holidays very memorable occasions with special decorations, music, and delicious dishes and dessert trays. Patti’s culinary gift was especially coveted at frequent family gatherings. Patti and her siblings had an incredible bond and, together, they created an everlasting gift of family memories among the Marmalick family cousins.

Patti’s greatest virtue was her selfless care for others, especially children. She poured herself into her children’s lives and thrived as a mother and grandmother. She was a wonderful mother and gave tirelessly to ensure that her children were cared for and prepared to build a happy life. She had a special intuition with her children and was always prepared with the right words and intervention to enable their own decisions for life’s important moments.

Patti’s caregiving talent and love of children translated into a long and fulfilling career as a Title I Aid in the Gladstone Area Public Schools. For over 25 years she touched so many lives, caring, inspiring, and advocating for students as if they were her own, especially the most vulnerable. Her most meaningful professional rewards were the smiles, cheerful greetings, and hugs that she would receive from her students, often well into their lives.

Patti’s heart was always big enough for others, but she held the most important part of herself for her loving husband, Dave. Together, they relished the joy of life’s simple pleasures, such as concerts of their favorite musical artists, cross-country road trips, or weekend getaways to the many beautiful locations across the Upper Peninsula, some of which included pit stops to place a wager or two. They were still only kids when they married and started a family. In their younger years, they especially enjoyed camping, live music, Nordic skiing, ice fishing, playing cards, and spending quality time with their friends and family. More recently they found great joy in supporting their children’s and grandchildren’s activities, including athletic pursuits, dance and music recitals, and academic and professional achievements. The sweetness of their time together can only be understood and afforded by years of shared hard work, sacrifice, and pure love for eachother. Together they built a wonderful legacy of family, which was Patti’s most cherished accomplishment.

Over the past twelve years Patti was in her absolute glory as a grandmother. Anybody who spoke with her knew how incredibly proud she was of her seven grandkids. She would light up with joy in discussing their successes and distinctively wonderful traits, which she cherished immensely. The overflowing joy and love that she gave to her family and others was and and will continue to be seen by many as a reflection of her beautiful soul. In addition to the many, many gifts and treats that she would save and provide to her grandkids on every visit, the sweetest and most treasured gifts are the characteristics and talents that made Patti the beautiful person she was. These will be an enduring legacy in the lives of her grandkids, Callen, Vincent, Eleanor, Adeline, Aksel, Harriet, and Hazel, who each possess their own special characteristics of Patti and will carry them throughout their lives.

In her leisure, she enjoyed watching sporting events with Dave and was a longtime fan of the Detroit Tigers, Green Bay Packers, and Michigan State Spartans. She was also a very proud dog mom and enjoyed spending time and goofing around with her “fourth child” and loving companion, Lisi. In her retirement years she developed a talent for online retail, especially Scandinavian children’s clothing, which turned into a business hobby that also helped her to share in the joy of giving to her grandkids.

Patti is survived by her loving husband, David L. Nyberg; children, David M. (Tracy) Nyberg, Erik (Kendra) Nyberg, and Kaitlin (Chris) Bonczyk; grandchildren, Hazel Nyberg, Harriet Nyberg, Aksel Nyberg, Callen Nyberg, Adeline Bonczyk, Eleanor Bonczyk, and Vincent Bonczyk; siblings, Theresa (Rick) LaFleur, Marcia (Clint) Dunathan, Mary (Dennis) Darling, and Matthew (Wendy) Marmalick; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Joyce, as well as her brother, Michael Marmalick.

Family will receive friends on Saturday, February 15, 2025 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Covenant Church of Gladstone. Funeral services honoring Patti will begin at 5:00 p.m. with Pastor Aaron Anderson officiating. A reception will follow in the church hall.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family to be used at a later date to honor Patti and her legacy.

33 Tributes for “Patti Nyberg”

    I had Patti in first grade at the Jones School. She was a bright and cheerful student and I enjoyed her. Years later she became a Teacher’s Aid at Gladstone. We also worshipped together at the Evangelical Covenant Church. She loved children, especially her seven grandbabies. She will be greatly missed!

    This is so shocking and sad. Patti was a loving person who treasured her family. It was obvious they were everything to her and my heart breaks for them. I’m so sorry. Patti was also very thoughtful and kind. She reached out to me several times after my son, Nick, died and she was a true empath who literally felt other people’s pain. That’s a rare quality these days.
    Sending prayers of comfort and peace to her loved ones in these upcoming days . Godspeed, Patti.

    My heart is broken for we lost yet another “light”…Such a good and kind person who will forever hold a place in my heart. My deepest condolences to her family and friends

    Dave and family,

    So sorry for your families loss. Patti was always so sweet especially to Samara. You were always great neighbors. She will be missed. Hugs sent.

    David and family, so very sorry to hear about the passing of Patti. Tammy and I will keep you and your family in our prayers during this difficult time.

    Dave and family- Sending our thoughts and prayers to you all. Patti has earned her angel wings way too early. May special memories heal your hearts.
    Gary and Kathy Maynard

    Anyone that crossed paths with Patti sure had a light added to thier lives. Her bright smile and infectious laugh will sure be missed. I see so much of Patti in her daughter who is my sister in law. Patti sure will be missed. Sending our condolences.

    I was shocked and saddened to hear of Patti’s passing. I met Patti at Jones and shared many years working with her. She really was one of the most loving, caring people I’ve ever met. I know how much she adored her family, especially her grandchildren! My prayers for you all. Keep all of your wonderful memories of Patti in your heart and May they offer you a bit of comfort in this sad time.

    I am heartbroken over the loss of such a beautiful woman both inside and out. As a young child, I met Patti in school and she quickly became a light in my life. She saw the goodness in everyone around her and I will never forget the way she has helped shape me into who I am today. As an adult, she has helped guide me throughout motherhood with the most kind, uplifting messages. I will cherish those messages forever and Patti, who was the best person I’ve been blessed enough to meet.

    Many prayers and blessings to her beautiful family who she loved and adored.

    What a wonderful caring woman Patti was, she always seemed to have a smile and a kind word. So so sorry for your loss. Our prayers and condolences.

    David, children & grandchildren, I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Patti’s passing. When we 1st started teaching together at the Jones School she approved me and said she remembered me from her childhood friendship with my younger sister Chrisy Young Derouin. I hadn’t seen her since she was a little girl and I always thought of her as a sweet little girl with a beautiful smile. She retained these characteristics as an adult and I always enjoyed working with her and getting to know her better as as adult. I also witnessed first hand her talents as a title one teacher. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, & sisters so I realize just how much she will be missed by her family & friends, and was a devoted Christian. May your precious memories and faith in the promises of Jesus be a comfort to you all. We will pray for all of you. Robin (Young) Custance

    Dave and patti were always there for me and my dad since I can remember. I met them because my dad work for David. Anytime I went to the shop or to church I saw Patti and Dave. I will miss the fun times we have had. I remember going and seeing you and Dave with dad and hanging out boy was that fun. You will be missed by the segers rest assure that. Even after I moved to Menominee Dave and patti always stayed in touch with me.

    What a loss to Patti’s family and close friends. She was a wonderful caring person and fun to talk with. My prayers and hugs go out to her family. She touched many people’s lives. ❤️

    Dave and Family,

    We are so saddened to learn of the passing of your mom/grandmother.
    Our sincere condolences to you and your whole family.
    May your heavy hearts be lightened by cherishing the memories you have.

    Godspeed sweet cousin Patti. You are loved and missed by your Marmalick cousins. Thank you always for your love. Dave, know that we’ve got you and we all are here for you. Sending love and hugs ❤❤

    I just stumbled across this by accident in the Escanaba Daily Press. I didn’t realize she passed away, so sad.
    My condolences go out to Dave and the family.

    To Dave and family,
    Words cannot express the sorrow I am feeling for your loss. We all grew up in Gladstone, hung out on the west side of town, and attended high school together. Even though our paths have not crossed recently Patti and I had connected on Facebook – mostly comparing our trips to Sweden. Dave, reach out to me any time day or night if you want/need to. My prayers will continue to be lifted up to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for your comfort and peace.
    In Him, Cory

    My name is Sarah. I didn’t know Ms. Patti for many years, but in the time I did, she left such a warm impression on my heart. We only had a few semi-long conversations over Facebook, but they were meaningful. It didn’t take long to realize what a wonderful person she was.
    I met her through her online Scandinavian hobby, but our chats quickly went beyond clothes. We talked about her life, her children, and her beloved grandchildren. She took an interest in my family as well, and we even talked about my son looking into Hillsdale. She was kind, engaging, warm, real, and an absolute joy to talk to.
    When I saw that she had passed away, I was shocked and saddened. Even though I hadn’t known her long, it felt like I had. My heart aches for her family.

    I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. I am praying for all of you during this difficult time.

    With love,
    Sarah

    Patti was dearly loved in our children’s clothing community online. She was apart of a smaller buy/sale/trade group on Facebook that focuses on selling clothing from Europe, or “Across the Pond”. I personally have been buying clothes from her for my son and daughter for a couple of years now. There are hundreds of comments in this group honoring her memory, and sending love to Patti’s family. Patti was a staple in our close-knit community and we will feel her absence. Rest in peace, Patti, you are missed by us all.

    To her family: she adored you all, and was always bragging about her children & grandchildren. She was always excited to talk about her grand babies! I know you will miss her dearly. I’m praying for your comfort.

    This is, Patrick, Chris’s brother. My wife, Yuting, and I are shocked and saddened by the loss of Patti. I enjoyed chatting with her and Dave at shared family events and always knew she was a fierce and loving mother and grandmother. Our hearts go out to Patti’s family, especially Dave, Dave, Katie, and Erik.

    David and Family, I am so sorry to hear about Patti’s passing. She was such a wonderful Woman and I know will be greatly missed.
    I am keeping you all in my Prayers.

    Dear David and family
    We read that Patty has passed away
    We send our condolences to you and your entire family.
    Happy to have met Patty as a happy and positive women.
    Love. Gunnar and Eivor Nyberg in Sweden.

    Dave and family, my sincerest condolences for the loss of your matriarch. Take peace in knowing that she is with our lord and savior Jesus Christ. No doubt, she wasn’t just a C&E as Dave would say, but a true warrior for her Christian beliefs and devotion to her family. Prayers to you and yours during this season of loss and grief.

    Heartfelt prayers and condolences to Patti’s family.

    Patti and I worked alongside one another as she was my classroom aide for many, many years at James T. Jones Elementary.
    She always had a positive word, a fantastic outlook on life that was contagious to everyone she came in contact with, and Patti ESPECIALLY loved her family to her core.
    Every day we had SO much fun together; especially about the fact that our birthdays were 1 day apart.
    It was amazing that 95% of the time we would so happen to wear the same color clothes to work- this was before texting was a thing. If Patti was wearing lime green, I came to school dressed in lime green.
    If she wore brown, I’d be wearing brown.
    Red and red! It was an anomaly we simply couldn’t figure out and after a while we just accepted it, laughed, and felt like the universe knew more than we could ever understand or have control over.

    Patti’s smile & light will definitely forever & always shine bright!!

    Dave and family, my sincere condolences to you. I was shocked to hear of Patti’s passing. Dave, you and Patti were, and will always be, one of the finest couples I was ever lucky enough to know. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

    I can’t remember the last time I saw my cousin Patti, but I remember her smiling and laughing!

    I have wonderful childhood memories of Christmas Eve at Grandma and Grandpa Farrell’s, their small house filled with family and food. The Marmalick family would buy Christmas presents for my family, and vice versa. My Marmalick cousins would get shoes when my mom worked at the shoe factory in Pulaski. When she started working at a car dealership, I like to think it was Patti who thought she should get a car for Christmas.

    Patti’s obituary is a lovely tribute. My sincere condolences to Dave & family and my Marmalick cousins.
    With love from Jim & Maryce Farrell’s daughter, Cathy Romanas & family – Gordon, Jake & Amy, and Ian

    Dear Nyberg and Marmalick Families

    We are saddened by the news of Patti’s passing.
    Some of us had the nice opportunity to be on the family Sweden trip with Patti and Dave.
    Patti grew up in the neighborhood and we agree with Patti, we did have the best neighborhood.

    Heartfelt Condolences

    I was so saddened to hear about Patti. I will always remember what a wonderful person and babysitter Patti was. She truly loved children and my kids were always so happy when they were with her. I remember how people would joke that she had twins, when Tammy was with Katie. Such a loving caring person she was. My deepest sympathy to all her family

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