Patricia Ilene Rifner began life with her Savior on June 29, 2026.

Patty was born on October 6, 1944. She was preceded in death by her mother, Cecil Zigler; stepfather, Dale Johnson; father, Fred Horn; brothers, Billy Mullenix, Tom Mullenix, Paul Mullenix, and Danny Mullenix; and sisters, Catherine McManaway and Joan Courtney.

Patty is survived by her husband of 52 years, Greg Rifner; sisters, Irene Hale and Sheryl Eaton; brother, Mike Mullenix; sons, Rodney Soultz (Veronica) and Doug Soultz (Colleen); and her Aunt Mary.

Also surviving are her granddaughters, Madison Harmon (Alex), Morgan Soultz, and Ashlee Soultz; grandsons, Cody Soultz (Molly), Josh Soultz (Tabitha), and Nick Soultz; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Throughout her life, Patty enjoyed a variety of hobbies and crafts. She was especially known for her homemade chocolate nut candies, which she lovingly shared with friends and many of the people she encountered through everyday life and service professions, including medical professionals, her mail carrier, hairdressers, garbage collectors, and many others. Her thoughtfulness and generosity touched countless lives.

Patty faithfully served her church and community. She served as Chair of the Deacons at Yorktown Christian Church for several years, established the Acolyte Program for children, organized Breakfast with Santa, and actively participated in numerous church activities. Her faith was evident in both her service and her daily life.

Patty and Greg shared their life and love for over 52 years. Patty was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who went to great lengths to care for any and all of her family's needs. Throughout their marriage, the Rifners lived in six different homes, and at each location it wasn't long before Mrs. Rifner was affectionately referred to as simply "Aunt Patty."

Family and friends may gather to share and remember on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Van Buren Central Christian Church, 201 S. 1st Street, Van Buren, Indiana. A service to celebrate Patty's life will begin at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Kyle Hunter officiating. Burial will follow in the Rifner family lot in the Van Buren Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Redcrest Hospice, 2700 West Gilbert Street, Muncie, IN 47303. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Redcrest Hospice for the extraordinary compassion, comfort, and care they provided. Their kindness will never be forgotten.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ferguson & Glancy Funeral Home in Van Buren.