Patrick John Peterson

Patrick John Peterson, age 39 of Richland Center, passed away peacefully on August 1st, 2026 at the family cabin in Wild Rose, Wisconsin. Born on June 28th, 1987, Patrick’s life changed forever in 1991 when he was welcomed into the home of John and Linda Peterson. From that day forward, he was not only a cherished son, but a deeply loved brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend. Patrick overcame several health obstacles and proudly became an Ithaca Bulldog and thrived during his elementary years. As a high school student, Patrick enjoyed making friends, playing various instruments in the percussion section of the band, operating his snack cart, taking every art class, attending school dances, and cheering on the purple and white. Surrounded by his circle of family, friends, educators, and classmates, Patrick graduated from Ithaca High School in 2006. Following graduation, Pat found meaningful work at VARC on the production line where his remarkable attention to detail, meticulous organization, and dependable nature made him exceptionally well suited for the job. As an adult, Pat became even more connected to his community. If something were happening in Richland Center, Patrick was there greeting friends and showing his enthusiastic loyal support! Patrick’s life was rich with places and activities: rodeos, county fairs, parades, Circus World, bowling, attending his nieces’ and nephews’ events, hitting the arcade, watching Packer games, trips to the zoo, being a jokester “Chicken!”, dairy breakfasts, pontoon rides, watching YouTube bull riding, Wyoming vacations, anything cowboy. His collection of Bucky Badger gear, Disney movies, business cards, socks, tee shirts, and belt buckles reflects his delight in the treasures that brought him joy! Root beer, cheese, green jello, and “big meat” were a must on Pat’s menu! More than anything else, Patrick loved his people! Big family gatherings ranked #1, and Patrick wouldn’t settle in until everyone was there! Pat knew the calendar order of holidays, events, birthdays and was always counting down to the next opportunity to bring everyone together to celebrate. He was the heartbeat of our family! Patrick’s absence leaves an immeasurable void. Imagining life without him feels impossible. The depth of our grief is the measure of the gift that was his life. He leaves behind not only cherished memories, but a family who was made better, stronger, and brighter because he was a part of them. Patrick is survived by his parents, John and Linda Peterson; 3 siblings Jennifer “Nenn” (Chris Lewis) Vosen, Beth “Bess” (Matt) Wood, and Andy “Drew” (Jonae) Peterson; 11 nieces and nephews: Lily, Toby, Kasen, Lydia, Jaelyn, Kaylee, JJ, Tristen, Johnny, Hudson, Jaxon; a beloved great aunt Judy Balmer; brother-in-law Joe Vosen; adventure pal Peggy Durkin; best friend Heather Dickey as well as dear cousins, many special friends and neighbors, his church family, and his Ithaca Bulldog community. Patrick was preceded in death by his dear brother Brandon Peterson, all four of his beloved grandparents, and his favorite cowboy Uncle Fritz. A Celebration of Patrick’s Life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Clary Memorial Funeral Home in Richland Center. Friends may call on Friday, August 7, 2026 at Clary Memorial Funeral Home from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm and also on Saturday from 10:00 until the time of service. www.clarymemorialfuneralhome.com Patrick’s family sends heartfelt thanks to the staff at UW Hospitals, the wonderful Kraemer Center nurses, and the St. Croix Hospice team. Special thanks to Clary Funeral Home for assisting the family during this difficult time. In honor of Patrick’s memory, the family encourages you to build a community that values acceptance, gives opportunities, embraces love, brings joy, and recognizes the extraordinary humanity we all share. Live with generosity of spirit! Live like Pat! .

Patrick John Peterson

June 28, 1987 - August 1, 2026