Patricia L. “Pat” Ambrose, 77, of Rockford, passed away Thursday, June 3, 2021, after a brief illness, in Swedish American Hospital. She was born on September 28, 1943, in Richland Center, WI, the daughter of Arlie and Margaret (Mercer) Recob. She married Richard “Dick” Ambrose on October 5, 1962, in Rockford. He died on September 17, 2014. She attended East High School and Rock Valley College. Pat was one of the founders and the Executive Director of the Veterans Drop-In Center, former Homeless Shelter Volunteer Coordinator, and Service Coordinator at the Rock River Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Pat had a passion for helping others. She began volunteering at the Red Cross Homeless Shelter in 1996 as a lead volunteer and quickly became the Homeless Shelter Volunteer Coordinator. Pat remained committed to the Red Cross for 15 years, assisting in Emergency Services, Public Relations, and Financial Development. After the Red Cross Homeless Shelter closed, at the age of 66, she became the Executive Director of the Rockford Advocacy Coalition for the Homeless, which led to the creation of the Veterans Drop-In Center in 2009. Pat was the heart of the center. She ran a tight ship earning her the nickname, “The General.” She was proud of the many awards she received over the years from her dedication to the community.

Pat was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a longtime fan of the Phantom Regiment and enjoyed watching two of her children perform. Pat was proud to be a Norwegian and regularly told everyone about her heritage. She was an amazing cook and avid garage saler.

Pat walked this earth with a purpose and shared her gift of selfless love. Those left to honor her memory include her four children, Tammarie (Norman) Gilg, Timothy (Laurie) Ambrose, Tina (Bob) Moseley, and Tedd Ambrose. Grandchildren, Margaret (Jeff) DeWitt, Katelyn Gilg, Jacob (Melissa) Ambrose, Nathan Ambrose, Bryce Moseley, Brynn Moseley, and Aria Ambrose. Great grandchildren, Jared Gilg, Remy Gilg –Goodwin, and Samuel DeWitt. Predeceased by husband, parents, and sister Jacqueline Haun.

A Celebration of Life open house will be held from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 26, 2021, at Veterans Memorial Hall, 211 N Main St., Rockford.