Patrick Allen Hetzel

Patrick Allen Hetzel, 43, of Cumming passed away on Friday, March 6, 2009, at his home. He was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend to all who knew him.
Pat had a true passion for life, exhibited through his love of boating with family and friends on Lake Lanier, coaching children's varied sports teams, playing baseball himself with Cumming First United Methodist Church leagues, cheering on children's from the sidelines, entertaining those around him with incredible sense of humor and quick wit, and being an active volunteer in his children's schools. The most endearing quality about Pat was his unconditional love of his family and friends. He was a positive, Christian role model to not only his children, but also to all whose lives he touched. Although involved in many activities, his greatest priority and joy was spending quality time with his wife and children, especially their summer beach trips.
An entrepreneur at heart, Pat owned and operated AP Dataweigh Inc., which he founded in 1994. He cherished his employees and he thrived on the custom nature and unique opportunities that each day brought.
Pat is survived by his wife, Joanne; his children, Allen Patrick, Paxton Elizabeth, Colby Louise, Taylor Claire Hetzel; parents, Dave and Louise Hetzel of Tifton; siblings, Kimberly Welty and husband Ken of Arnold, Md., Sharon Tunider and husband Tim of Savannah, Douglas Hetzel and wife Harriet of Summerville, S.C., Julie Thumbtzen and husband Bill of Jasper, Fla.; and nine nieces and nephews.
Pat will be greatly missed by the communities he served and all who loved him so much.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, at Cumming First United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends on Monday, March 9, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.
To honor Pat's remarkable dedication and commitment to his children's education, an educational fund has been set up for the Hetzel children and tax-deductible donations may be made at any Bank of America location.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.mcdonaldandson.com.
McDonald and Son Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.