Coping with Grief
We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. Enter your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. Messages run for up to one year and you can stop at any time. Your email will not be used for any other purpose.
Patricia “Patty” Mnich, 81, of Somerville, New Jersey, passed away May 2, 2026, with her family by her side. Born in Summit on October 1, 1944, to the late John and Helen Leisner, Patty grew up in Dover and graduated from Dover High School.
Patty met the love of her life, Edward “Eddie” Mnich, at her best friend’s wedding, and the two were married on April 25, 1964. In 1970, Patty and Eddie moved to Somerville, where they raised their daughter and built a warm, loving home filled with family and laughter.
Patty dedicated nearly 50 years of her career to Somerset Medical Center, where she worked faithfully until the present. She served as a Pathology Systems Coordinator, known for her commitment, reliability, and kindness made her a beloved presence among her many colleagues.
She was predeceased by her loving husband, Edward; her parents, Helen and John; and her brother, John.
Patty leaves behind her cherished daughter and son-in-law, Kelly Wizemann, and Edward Wizemann; and her greatest joys, her grandchildren Chase and Aleesa Wizemann, who lovingly called her “Nana‑Banana.” Patty shared an extraordinary bond with her grandchildren, a closeness built on endless love, laughter, and the kind of connection that shaped every part of her life. Whether she was cheering them on or simply being present with her warm smile and gentle spirit, Patty poured her whole heart into being their Nana. They were her pride, her joy, and her constant source of light. She is also survived by her sister, Donna Baker, along with cherished nieces and nephews, and of course, her adored grand‑dog, Joey.
Among Patty’s most treasured memories was a special trip she took with her daughter, Kelly, to Iceland, where the two shared the unforgettable experience of seeing the Northern Lights together. It was a moment of wonder and closeness they held dear.
Patty was known for her warmth, her generosity, and her incredible baking. Every Christmas, she filled the house with the smell of dozens of cookies — lovingly packed into old Charlie Chip cans — to share with family and friends. And not only were her cookies famous, but her crumb cake was legendary — the kind of treat people playfully fought over because everyone wanted a piece.
She was also an avid reader and loved being part of the neighborhood book club, though it was never entirely clear whether she enjoyed discussing the books more, or simply gathering with friends for good food and a few cocktails. Either way, it brought her joy, laughter, and community.
Patty had a lifelong love of Corvettes, and later in life fulfilled her dream of owning a convertible. On beautiful days, you could find her cruising around with the top down, enjoying the simple joy of the ride.
Patty will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She had a warm, welcoming smile and a way of making everyone feel like family, whether you knew her for years or had just met her. She will be greatly missed, and her absence leaves a gap that cannot be filled. Her kindness, her spirit, and the love she poured into her family will remain forever in their hearts.
Visitation will be from 4:00 - 7:00PM on Monday, May 11, 2026 at the Bridgewater Funeral Home, 707 East Main St, Bridgewater, NJ 08807. Funeral services will be at 10:00AM on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at the funeral home, followed by burial at Holy Cross Cemetery in Basking Ridge, NJ.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Patricia A. Mnich, please visit our floral store.