Patricia Ann Vandeschraaf, a 63-year-old white female, passed away on July 6, 2015, in Pekin, Illinois. Patricia, who was born on June 22, 1952, was a dedicated nurse with a long career at Pekin Hospital and later at Caterpillar Inc. She was known for her compassion and commitment to patient care, having worked in various roles including trauma nurse and educator.
On the day of her death, Patricia was found shot to death in her home.
The incident was part of a tragic murder-suicide involving her former husband, Steven Vandeschraaf, aged 62. Steven, who had no prior criminal record, allegedly shot Patricia before turning the gun on himself. He was found unconscious with a gunshot wound to the head and later pronounced dead at a local hospital. The couple had divorced in 2005 but continued to live together in the same house.
The investigation into the deaths was conducted by the Pekin Police Department and the Tazewell County Coroner’s Office. Autopsy results confirmed that Patricia died from a gunshot wound, and the case was quickly classified as a murder-suicide. Friends and colleagues of Patricia expressed shock and sorrow over her death, remembering her as a beloved and energetic individual who had a significant impact on her community through her work in nursing and emergency management.
No further arrests or suspects were involved in the case, as the primary suspect, Steven Vandeschraaf, was deceased. The investigation concluded with the determination that Steven was responsible for Patricia's death, and no additional litigation or law cases were pursued in relation to this incident.
