Patricia M. "Trish" Saelens

Trish Saelens, 71, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2024. She will be dearly missed by all.

Memorial services will be 11 AM Friday, February 16, 2024, at the Van Hoe Funeral Home, East Moline. The memorial services will be live-streamed and may be viewed at https://vimeo.com/911921194

Visitation will be one hour prior at the funeral home. Entombment will be in St. Mary's Mausoleum, East Moline.

At Trish's request, in lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to Alleman High School or the Alzheimer's Association Iowa Chapter.

Trish was born July 5, 1952 in Rock Island to William J. and Beverly A. (Lacrosse) Saelens.

Trish grew up in East Moline and attended St Anne's Catholic Grade School and Alleman High School. She received an Associate's degree from Blackhawk College, a Bachelor Degree from Eastern Illinois University, a Master's Degree from the University of Tennessee and a Doctorate in Education from Arizona State University.

Her career included various positions at multiple universities around the country including East Texas State University, Texas Women's University, Arizona State University, The University of Illinois and Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. She was very proud of her 40 year career in higher education. She supported thousands of students through their college experience. Trish made many lasting friendships throughout her life with both students and colleagues.

She enjoyed holidays with family and hosted several Thanksgivings for everyone at her home. She was especially proud of her seven nieces and nephews. She always enjoyed their company and celebrating their accomplishments with them throughout the years. She will lovingly be remembered as one of goodness, fun, laughter and practicality.

Trish is survived by her brothers, Mike (Leslie) Saelens of Clinton, WA, Tom (Margaret) Saelens of Bettendorf, IA, Bill (Joni) Saelens of Bettendorf, IA and sister Mary Ann (Ron) Morgan of Arlington, TX, seven nieces and nephews and one great niece and nephew. Trish was preceded in death by her parents and nephew, Christopher Saelens.

The family would like to thank the Staff of The Fountains in Bettendorf and all the caregivers that touched her life in these last few years.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vanhoe.com