Patricia Birch

1950 - 2025

Patricia Ann Birch, age 74, of Monticello, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at CentraCare Monticello Hospital.
Born on November 23, 1950, in Fergus Falls to Garland and Gwendolyn (Paulson) Birch, Patricia lived a life defined by kindness, resilience, and unwavering optimism. She graduated from Moorhead State University with a degree in Psychology. She went on to serve as a corrections officer in Ottertail County until her retirement-a career she took great pride in, especially for the camaraderie she shared with her colleagues.
Patricia was an avid reader, a devoted dog lover-cherishing her Boston Terriers and, most recently, her Havanese, Bella -and a proud Minnesotan who loved spending time at the family cabin on West Battle Lake. She enjoyed traveling when she could and approached life always believing in the good in people.
A testament to her strength and gratitude for life, Patricia was a proud lung transplant survivor, receiving her gift of life in 2018.
She is survived by her children, Brandon (Andreja) Williamson of Big Lake and Keri (Brandon) McCollum of Sartell; and her beloved grandchildren, Kaitlin, Sydney, Zachary, Gwenyth, Trevor, Ty, and Ruby. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Patricia's passing was unexpected, and while her family and friends are spread across many states, an online memorial will be held later in November so that all who loved her may come together to share memories and celebrate her life. An in-person remembrance will be planned at a later date. In honor of Patricia's life and her transplant journey, the family asks that those wishing to support her memory consider becoming an organ donor or making a donation to Nora's Home in Houston, where she resided for several months following her transplant. Donations can be made at www.norashome.org.