Patricia Niehaus

Patricia “Pat” Louise Niehaus (née Summers), 100, passed away on October 17, 2026, at her home in Granite City, IL, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Murphysboro, IL, to the late Harry and Leota (née Childers) Summers.

Patricia was known for her warm spirit and vivacious personality, with a natural gift for making friends wherever she went. At 19 years old, with her parents’ blessing, she boarded a train from Illinois to New Orleans, LA, to marry the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Niehaus, who was stationed there with the United States Army.

Together, Patricia and Bob built a life in Granite City, where they both worked for the Norfolk Southern Railroad. Patricia spent 43 years as a railroad clerk before retiring. Their marriage spanned 65 years, until Bob’s passing on August 16, 2010. In the years that followed, Patricia continued to carry his memory close to her heart.

Patricia’s greatest joys in her life were her family and her faith. Following closely behind was her love for the St. Louis Cardinals. When she wasn’t watching a ballgame, she could be found enjoying her favorite game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy!, and America Says. She loved gathering with her daughters and her special friend, Nola, for games of bingo and Rummikub. Patricia was an active member of Bethesda Baptist Church and the Senior Citizens of Glen Carbon, where she cherished the friendships she formed throughout her life. She also held a special place in her heart for her beloved little Yorkie, Bennie Ray. With her outgoing nature, Patricia had a gift for bringing people together, leaving behind a lasting community of family and friends who will remember her fondly.

Patricia leaves behind her devoted daughters, Pamela (Jerry) Heuer and Nancy Niehaus, both of Granite City; her grandchildren, Bill Bank of Granite City, Robert (Jaleah) Mitchell of Granite City, Kelly Lauman of Manchester, MO, Angela (Stacy Williams) Kiernan of Tempe, AZ, Vince (Carla) Heuer of Granite City, and Jere (Lanelle) Heuer of Granite City; her great-grandchildren, Samantha, Stephen, Carly, Nicole, Jade, and Connor; and her great-great-grandchildren, Leo, Max, William, Skylar, Kaylee, Oliver, Michael, Parker, Liam, Hailee, Leah, and Lucas. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will cherish her memory.

In addition to her parents, Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob Niehaus, and her sisters, Jackie Riley and Joan Brewer.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 26, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, at Irwin Chapel in Granite City, IL. Funeral services will follow immediately at 1:00 PM.

Patricia will be laid to rest at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, where she will be reunited with her beloved Bob.

Memorial contributions may be made in Patricia’s honor to the Bethesda Baptist Church, or to the family.

Obit Provided By:
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home