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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

Patricia Tomasetti Armbruster

Patricia Tomasetti Armbruster of Wilmington, Delaware passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 after a recent pancreatic cancer diagnosis.

Born in 1951 in Wilmington, Delaware to the late Raymond E. Tomasetti and Esther B. Tomasetti, Patricia graduated from Claymont High School and the University of Delaware.

A lifelong Delawarean, Patricia began her career as an elementary school teacher at Alexis I. DuPont Middle School.  After leaving education to raise her three children, Patricia discovered her true passion – educating young children.  She spent 34 years as a teacher or administrator at Concord Preschool and Child Care.

When she was not binge-watching Hallmark Christmas movies, overanalyzing her beloved Phillies poor plate discipline or throwing shekels on a random game of chance, Patricia devoted her free time to her community: working at the red balloon gift shop at Nemours Children Hospital, volunteering her time with various community organization including North Brandywine Swim League, South Graylyn Crest Civic Association and Crestview Swim Club.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 42 years, Charles T. Armbruster, Jr.

Pat is survived by her three children:  Katherine (Vince) Socorso, Caroline (Paul) Sawyer, and Charles T. Armbruster, III.  Tricia is also survived by her two brothers, Raymond (Christine) E. Tomasetti, Jr. and Richard (Tracy) T. Tomasetti.  Gram leaves behind six beloved grandchildren: Andrew, Charles, Charlotte, Francesca, Lilianna and Porter.

Family and friends may call on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington, Delaware 19803.

Funeral Services

Family and friends may call on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington, Delaware 19803.

A Mass of Christian Burial will occur on Wednesday, October 25, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 3200 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, Delaware 19703.  The visitation will be at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware.

Condolences

    Susan McDaniel Head lit a candle and writes,
    I fondly remember your Grandfather driving your Mom and I to kindergarten at the old Stone School and all the good times we had from kindergarten until our graduation from Claymont High. These memories will put a smile on my face when I think of your Mom. I’m sending God’s blessings to your family.
    10/20/2023 07:32 pm
    Judith Byrd Little writes,
    I loved my sweet cousin. I only remember fun times with lots of laughter. She was such a happy person. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. She is pain free on the other side with many of our relatives.
    10/20/2023 07:47 pm
    Caitlin Arm lit a candle and writes,
    I will truly miss our conversations and all the laughs we shared. I will miss being able to text you and just talk to you about anything and receiving the love and support like a mom to me.
    10/20/2023 08:42 pm
    Elaine Coughlan writes,
    Small state Delaware strikes again. Son Chip and daughter Carrie coached my kids in swimming; nephew Jeff swam against and coached with my son; late husband had my son with Boys’ State. So sorry for your loss.
    10/20/2023 09:12 pm
    Brittany lit a candle and writes,
    Thinking of you all in this difficult time. ❤️
    10/20/2023 10:19 pm
    Linda Ford lit a candle and writes,
    I’m so sorry Kate ,,❤️
    10/21/2023 07:11 am
    Rosalind Primmer lit a candle and writes,
    I bought my first house 40 years ago and lived next door to the Armbrusters. Chip and Katie were my daughter’s first friends. I have fond memories of spending summers at the Crestview pool with Pat and the kids. We’ve stayed in touch all these years. She will be missed.
    10/21/2023 07:21 am
    Marybeth Connors writes,
    Pat was a wonderful pre school teacher and administrator. All 3 of my children were fortunate enough to have her in their lives. I also had the pleasure of seeing her at Nemours during my career. She will be deeply missed. Prayers for comfort to her family and friends.
    10/21/2023 10:38 am
    Stephanie Piner lit a candle and writes,
    I’m so sorry and pray for you all…….
    10/21/2023 12:28 pm
    Rich and Mary Bontempi /Michelle and Marc Stockland and Family lit a candle and writes,
    Katie and entire family, so sorry to hear about Tricia’s passing. Our deepest sympathies and prayers go to your family from all of us here in California. I have very fond memories of our trips to Delaware. The Tomasetti’s always made us feel quite at home. Your mom and I always had fun playing together as kids. Her smile has always been as it is in that photo. I was glad to reconnect with her and some of you at Michael Bontempi’s wedding a few years ago at LBI. We had been keeping in touch through texts the last few years. She will always be one the nicest people I have ever met and we will miss her.
    10/21/2023 04:25 pm
    Carolyn Uhlig
    10/22/2023 10:15 am
    Janet Koczak writes,
    Sorry for your loss. My condolences to all who mourn. 💐 Jan Koczak
    10/22/2023 10:33 am
    Eleanor Volpe lit a candle and writes,
    Pat was such a sweet woman may she Rest In Peace 🙏
    10/22/2023 11:02 am
    Sam Minutola lit a candle and writes,
    My condolences to the Armbruster & Tomasetti family played softball forTrish's dad (she was a die hard Phillies fan) & a great Mom Chuck was a Vietnam Vet, was member of Del Vets Post1 great Americans. Sam Minutola Past Commander Del Vets Post 1
    10/22/2023 02:12 pm
    Chuck Kunz writes,
    I’m so sorry for your loss, and for the loss of a wonderful educator. Miss Tomasetti/Mrs. Armbruster was my first-grade teacher at Greenville Elementary School in the early 70’s. I still have wonderful memories of being in her class (even now, 50 years later). I clearly remember her teaching me to read Sally Dick and Jane books and encouraging my efforts in mathematics (ps, I still struggle). This is less clear - she might have actually been my kindergarten teacher (when she was Miss Tomasetti), and suddenly was Mrs. Armbruster the next year. Either way - she was terrific and I was sorry to read of her passing. There are few teachers that leave such a lasting and positive impression, and I’m sure everyone who had the pleasure of being in her classes is better for it. All the best to you and your family.
    10/22/2023 05:24 pm
    Melissa Greto Kenvin and Pete Kane lit a candle and writes,
    Thinking of you all at this time sending you guys hugs and prayers I loved your mom and enjoyed working with her going to miss her smile in the morning. Love you guys xoxo
    10/22/2023 06:22 pm
    Suzanne Thompson writes,
    I first met Trish when we were both new teachers and would share school experiences as we watched her dad coach the softball team. So many memories of friendship through the years. She was a kind and caring woman . My condolences to the family.
    10/23/2023 05:57 am
    Jane & John Laursen writes,
    We are sorry to hear this sad news about Pat. Prayers to the whole family. North Wilmington has lost a true treasure.
    10/23/2023 09:46 am
    Gary Holloway writes,
    Sending our thoughts and prayers for healing and comfort for Patricia's family and friends at this most difficult time. Sincerely, Sons Of The American Legion Detachment Of Delaware
    10/23/2023 11:06 am
    Carey (Valentine) MacKinnon lit a candle and writes,
    Pat and my mom, Karen Valentine, were college best friends. When Pat came to visit Florida in March, I am so glad we got to see her and spend time together. We had a ladies day out making mala necklaces, lunch, conversation and laughter. I loved seeing her and my mom share their stories and giggle together. My heart was so sad when I learned of her illness then recent passing. I know she has been reunited with the love of her life and they are both smiling down on all their children and grandchildren. Sending love and prayers to her three children and grandbabies.
    10/23/2023 11:47 am
    Ed Pankowski lit a candle and writes,
    sorry for your loss, Ray… Your sister was a great person… RIP
    10/23/2023 01:59 pm
    Ian Carter lit a candle and writes,
    Sincere condolences to the Tomasetti families at this sad time. I had the pleasure of meeting Tricia several times during the 3 years I lived in USA 2002-2004. Fond memories of a lovely lady. We were lucky to have had her in our lives. kind regards Ian Carter Melbourne, Australia
    10/24/2023 12:49 am
    Katie Brennan writes,
    Sending condolences and love from the Brennan family to all the Armbrusters. We will all cherish the memories of the Crestview days with your mom.
    10/24/2023 10:30 am
    Marie A. Maks (Maksimowicz) writes,
    Pat was probably the first person who reached out to me as a new student in 9th grade to greet me and befriend me. We were on the volleyball team and on the yearbook committee and in most every class; not sure about Latin. Pat and I worked with Audrey on the reunions the past 20 years and I will miss her at the prep meetings for the reunion. Pat was always sweet, not sure if I ever saw her angry, and was kind. I am sure she is with Chuck in heaven now.
    10/24/2023 03:20 pm
    Reka Hill lit a candle and writes,
    Sending my sincerest condolences to Ms. Pat's loved ones. You were truly a blessing to this world and the people you encountered. I always looked forward to your smile working at Concord Preschool and seeing you light up telling stories about your grandchildren. I will always be grateful to you for helping me kick start my career with the state. You will be missed more than you know!
    10/24/2023 08:01 pm
    Krista Anthony lit a candle and writes,
    May Pat’s family and loved ones be comforted by their special memories. I will miss her and will always remember her smile and kindness. We had two sweaters that were the same and laughed each time we wore them. May the Lord Bless You and Keep You.
    10/24/2023 10:06 pm
    karen and Jamie Curran writes,
    So sorry to hear of Trisha's passing. May fond memories bring your family comfort. She was always smiling with a great attitude. She touched many lives especially the children!
    11/02/2023 11:34 pm

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