Rosa Jean Patten, 61, of Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away on February 15, 2026. She was born on February 5, 1965, in Aurora, Illinois, to Mary and Gerald Erickson Sr.
Rosa was a beautiful woman inside and out. She carried herself with strength, confidence, and a spark that drew people in. She was strong-willed and stubborn in the very best way, and she fought until the very end just like she lived with grit and heart. Her children and grandchildren were her whole world, and she loved them fiercely. Gardening brought her peace, and if she could be anywhere, it would be with her toes in the sand at the beach, her favorite place on earth.
Rosa’s laugh was unforgettable, loud, full, and contagious, the kind of laugh that filled a room and made everyone else join in. When you heard her laugh, you knew you were home. She also adored her beloved dog, Charlie, who brought her comfort, companionship, and plenty of smiles.
Rosa married the love of her life, Danny Patten, a love that spanned over 30 years. Their relationship was one of those rare, different in so many ways yet perfectly balanced together. No matter what life brought their way, they always found their way back to each other. They shared a simple, beautiful joy in being together. Some of their happiest days were spent out on the boat It wasn’t just about the fishing, it was the laughter, the quiet talks, the peacefulness of the water, and the comfort of knowing they had each other.
She is survived by her; sons, Chad Elder (Vanessa), Dylon Patten (Elijah), and stepson, Brennen Patten; daughter-in-law, Erica Elder; grandchildren, Hayden and Arleigh Elder; brother, Jerry Erickson and wife Allie; sisters, Rene Holdren and Malynda Godinez; sister-in-law, Laura Patten-Parker; nieces and nephews, Miranda Erickson, Izabella and Javier Godinez, Leslie (Johnnie) Bodine, and Teja King.
Rosa Jean Patten was one of a kind, beautiful, strong, loving, and unforgettable. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and remembered always.
She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Ricky Elder; mother, Mary Beasley; father, Gerald Erickson Sr.; brother, Gary Beasley; brother-in-law Bill Holdren; and her father and mother in-law, Bob Patten and Sue Patten Ullom.
Cremation has taken place under the care of Elliott Mortuary. A celebration of Rosa’s life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.