Patricia Cooke Happel, 62, of Southbury, died unexpectedly February 12, after a short illness, surrounded by family and friends at Waterbury Hospital. She was born August 13, 1953, in Norwalk, and was a daughter of the late Frances Ellen Cooke and James Melvin Cooke. She grew up in Norwalk and graduated from Norwalk High School and attended Lee Johnson School of Business.www.diabetes.orgIn lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association at

She married her soul mate and the love of her life, Raymond Todd Happel, in 1986, and moved to Newtown. Mr Happel passed away in 1993, and her heart never fully healed. She devoted the rest of her life to raising her daughter, Dana.

Ms Happel was always involved in school activities and was an active member of the community. For many years she volunteered as an EMT with the Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps, where she enjoyed being able to give back to the community she loved.

One of her favorite adventures was a trip to Ireland with friends.

A month before her passing, she became a first-time grandmother and absolutely adored her grandson, Benjamin. She was counting down the days until her next visit to snuggle him. She loved nothing more than spending time with family and enjoying a margarita with friends. She was well known for her sense of humor, infectious laugh, passionate spirit, and delicious cornbread recipe.

Her daughter Dana Lynn Happel Orkin and her wife, Hildi Orkin; grandson, Benjamin Ezekiel Orkin; brothers James Cooke and William Cooke; sisters Barbara Heller and Mary Ellen Waldmann; and numerous nieces and nephews survive Ms Happel.

Ms Happel will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

.