Annette Patenaude

Annette Patenaude, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, cousin and friend to many, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, In Valley Center, Kansas, at the age of 61. Born on August 24, 1963, in Decatur, Illinois, to Reverend Robert J. Patenaude, Sr. and Rosella Patenaude , Annette's life was a reflection of her deep faith, boundless love for others, and joyful spirit. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Robert J. Patenaude, Jr., and her late first husband, Joseph N. Wuest.

Annette was the proud mother of seven: Holly Wuest, Joseph Wuest (wife Whitney),  Alex Wuest (wife Emily), Jordan Wuest (wife Natasha), Noah Wuest (wife Jessica), Jared Wuest, and Mikayla Wuest. She was also the adoring grandmother of eleven, and is survived by her cherished sister, Phylis Richert (husband Ed).

A woman of strong faith, Annette loved Jesus and lived in a way that made others feel seen, loved, and welcomed. She had a passion of antiquing, collecting treasures as unique as she was, and never missed a chance to chat with a stranger and make a new friend. Her heart for service extended into her community, where she volunteered at Cowtown in Wichita, Kansas, as a theatrical gunfighter--a role she proudly referred to as her "international acting career".

Annette's legacy is one of love, humor, compassion, and unwavering faith. She often said, "I am a lover of Christ and I want everything I do to glorify Christ". And that is exactly how she lived--boldly, joyfully, and unashamed of her faith. Her life was centered on honoring Jesus and pouring love into her family and all those she welcomed into her family and all those she welcomed into her heart as extended family. She was a living testimony of God's mercy and grace, reminding others that His love can redeem, restore, and sustain. Though her absence leaves a profound emptiness, her spirit lives on the faith she lived out, the love she gave, and the countless lives she touched through Christ.

In her final years, Annette often spoke of the steadfast love of God--how is carried her, sustained her, and filled her with hope. She would want everyone to know that no matter where you've been or what you faced, the love of Jesus is real, unshakable, and always waiting with open arms.

A Celebration of Life services will be held this Saturday, August 9th at 10:00 a.m. at LifePoint Church, located at 400 S. Abilene Ave., Valley Center, KS 67147, and will be officiated by Pastor Steve Rains. All who knew and loved Annette are welcome to attend and honor her life.

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