Patricia “Patty” Jo Oulman Berge, 71, passed away Thursday, November 27, 2025, at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City, Iowa.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 310 First Ave. North, Clear Lake, Iowa, with Rev. Josh Link officiating. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service. Patty’s inurnment will take place at a later date at Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City.
Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in her memory.
Patricia Jo was born May 29, 1954, in Mason City, Iowa, the daughter of Richard and Elizabeth (Shovein) Oulman. She attended school in Mason City until her family relocated to Sarasota, Florida, where she later graduated from Riverview High School.
Patty discovered early on that she had a passion for food service, and she spent many years working in the catering industry. In 1988, she moved back to Clear Lake and worked for a time at the Clear Lake Bakery. Her love of caring for others led her to become a Certified Nursing Aide, and she devoted many meaningful years to Opportunity Village until her retirement.
Patty was married to Michael Donahue, and later to James Berge; both marriages ended, but she carried many fond memories forward from those chapters of her life.
A talented artist, Patty especially loved pottery and created many beautiful pieces over the years. She also enjoyed cooking, tending to her flower gardens, and spending quiet moments birdwatching. Animals held a special place in her heart—Patty would have rescued every one she came across if she could.
She will be remembered for her creative spirit, her kindness, and her deep love for people and animals alike.
Patty is survived by her sister, Julia Oulman, and her nephew, Carlos (Jocelyn) Oulman, all of Clear Lake, Iowa; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Stephen Oulman.
Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel
310 First Ave North, Clear Lake, Iowa 50428
641-357-2193
www.colonialchapels.com
