Patricia J. (Smail) Halpin Van Gennep Obituary
Official Obituary of

Patricia J. (Smail) Halpin Van Gennep

November 17, 1937 - May 9, 2026

Patricia J. (Smail) Halpin Van Gennep Obituary

Patricia J. Halpin-Van Gennep, passed away peacefully Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Casa de Ramana in Framingham. She leaves a son Edward Halpin and his wife Jennifer, of Whitinsville, Massachusetts, daughter-in-law Kathy Willis-Halpin, of Indiana; two sisters: Dolores Roberts, of California and Darlene Johnson, of Michigan, a sister-in-law Dianne Smail, also of Michigan, and four beloved grandchildren: Joshua, Rachel, Jacob and Tiela.  Patricia was predeceased by her husband John Van Gennep, her son James Halpin and brother David Smail.


Patricia was born November 17, 1937, in Platteville, Wisconsin. After graduating from Platteville High School, she worked in Chicago, where she met Arthur Halpin. They married and settled in South Holland, Illinois, raising their two sons and building a life together there. For many years she worked as a dental receptionist in South Holland. In 1990, Patricia married John Van Gennep. After John’s passing, Pat moved to Massachusetts to be near her son Ed and his family.


Pat loved the outdoors, gardening, and had an eye for decorating. She enjoyed flea markets, collected antiques, and rescued many cats over the years. Known for her generosity, candor, and fierce independence, she was deeply loved by family and friends. Her Christian faith guided her life, and we take comfort in knowing she is now with the Lord.


According to her wishes, all services are private.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Patricia, please visit our floral store.

Patricia J. Halpin-Van Gennep, passed away peacefully Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Casa de Ramana in Framingham. She leaves a son Edward Halpin and his wife Jennifer, of Whitinsville, Massachusetts, daughter-in-law Kathy Willis-Halpin, of Indiana; two sisters: Dolores Roberts, of California and Darlene Johnson, of Michigan, a sister-in-la

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