For Pat Stuhmcke, life has always been about making the most of every day.
Her personal philosophy “enjoy each day as it comes, because we don’t know what is ahead of us tomorrow” has guided her through both life’s joys and challenges.
Early days
Born in Pomona, Queensland, Pat spent much of her childhood on a dairy farm in Gayndah.
As the eldest of five children, she quickly developed a strong work ethic and a caring nature, helping both with the family’s dairy cows and the care of her siblings.
At just 13 years old, Pat entered the workforce, assisting the nuns at a local preparatory school.
Her heart was always drawn to nursing because of her desire to help people.
Once she was old enough to train, she began nursing at Gayndah Hospital in 1952, where she worked for almost two years.
In 1954, she married her first husband, the late Jim Haack.
Together, they had five children – Clyde, Darryl, Maree, Susan and Barry.
Pat devoted most of her time to raising her family while pursuing creative hobbies such as pottery and painting.
The family moved to North Maclean in 1966, but tragedy struck when Jim passed away three years later.
A new perspective
Losing Jim changed Pat’s outlook on life, reinforcing the importance of appreciating life and cherishing time with loved ones.
“You don’t think much about what’s going to happen when you’re younger,” she said.
“Then you suddenly realise, ‘Today is here. What’s going to happen ahead of you tomorrow?’.
“What I’ll say is enjoy today…and put a smile on somebody’s face.”
A mutual friend later introduced her to builder Rowan Stuhmcke, who had initially spoken with her about building a laundry at the family property.
Their friendship blossomed into romance, and the couple married on the property in 1973.
They later welcomed their daughter, Tracey.
Pat and Rowan share a love of sport and social activities, spending many years playing tennis, lawn bowls and dancing, with the Jazz Waltz among their favourite dances.
After several moves throughout south-east Queensland, they purchased their home in Kerry in 1984, where they have happily lived for the past 41 years.
Giving back
Community service has been a defining feature of Pat’s life.
Over the years, she has volunteered with Wongaburra, Darlington State School P&C, Kerry Hall committee, Beaudesert Potters Group, Beaudesert Bowls Club and Beaudesert U3A.
She was also a co-founder of a local tennis group alongside Shirley Johnston.
They played regularly at the Darlington State School courts from 1985 until August 2025.
The best things in life
Today, Pat enjoys gardening and, above all, spending time with her family, which now includes 30 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
“Having a family…that’s our greatest achievement,” Pat said.
She continues to live by her motto, inspiring those around her with a life defined by kindness, community spirit and a deep appreciation for every day.
