Paul Patrick died, Sunday, April 5, at his home in Plainwell. He was 75.
Paul was born on April 23, 1950, in Plainwell, the son of Homer and Zelma (Kinnard) Patrick. He was lovingly referred to by his mother as the seventh son, of the seventh son.
A graduate of Martin Schools, he often joked he was going to sow his wild oats, following his Christian upbringing, become a pastor someday. He did not end up becoming a pastor, but he did continue his journey in faith, as a man who followed Jesus.
Paul was employed at the Simpson Paper Mill (Plainwell Paper) for 32 years, retiring in 2012.
He was an avid coon hunter, spending countless hours pursuing that passion, and passed down that joy and tradition to his sons. He cherished his first two coon dogs, Prince and Judy, among the many dogs he had throughout his life. He also enjoyed fishing and being outdoors.
Paul loved a good joke and had a great laugh. He liked to play the guitar and sing. He shared the love of playing and singing with his sons.
Paul is survived by his children, Paul David (Jayne) Patrick, Michael Chad (Spicy) Patrick, Melissa Jean Patrick, and Joseph Lee (Ashley Joy) Patrick, 13 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and sister Jean (Jerry) Hatfield. Also surviving is his lifelong best friend, Steve Fitzpatrick.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson Tyler James, and siblings, Morney, Tick, Jerry, Red, Carl, Bus, James and Jack.
Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date.
His ashes will be interred at Orangeville Cemetery.
