Patrick Joseph Cofield

Patrick "Pat" Cofield, born on September 27, 1939 in Galesburg Illinois to Willard and Sadie(Fields) Cofield, left us peacefully on May 9th, 2024. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, whose warmth and love touched everyone who knew him.

Pat's passion for wildlife art brought the beauty of nature into our lives. His meticulously crafted woodcarvings of ducks, eagles, and songbirds were a testament to his incredible patience, talent and dedication. Each piece, lovingly carved, wood-burned, and painted by hand, reflected his deep appreciation for the natural world.

Pat proudly served in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1966, and found great purpose and discipline in the military, and enjoyed the adventure of traveling by sea to far away lands. One of the highlights of his later years was joining the Greater Peoria Area Honor Flight in 2015. This experience was a fitting tribute to his patriotic spirit and dedication to his country.

In Rome, Illinois, Pat found a home and a community he loved. He spent 30 years working at the Mossville Caterpillar Tech Center as an electronic instrument repairman, where he also served as a union shop steward for UAW Local 321. 

Pat's love for life extended to his hobbies and interests. He was an amazing cook and baker, a skilled gardener, with a particular affinity to Illinois native prairie flowers and grasses.  Pat was a devoted baseball fan who attended countless games with the Peoria Pacers, Suns, Chiefs and Cubs. The joy he felt when the Chicago Cubs won the World Series was a moment of pure happiness (and relief) that he shared with his family and friends.

To his beloved wife, Ellie, his sons, Patrick and Andrew, and his grandson, Sage, Pat was the quiet, thoughtful, and caring heart of the family. He took care of everything and everyone, ensuring that his home was a place of love and stability. His dedication to his family was unparalleled, and his presence will be deeply missed.

Pat's belief in the true essence of being an American—sharing freedom, embracing equality, and showing respect for all—guided his actions and shaped his character. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and artistry will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Pat is survived by his loving wife, Eloise; his sons, Patrick and Andrew; his grandson, Sage, and sister Jean. He is preceded in death by brothers Tom and John and his sister Maryanne.  A small, private celebration of Pat's life will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Peoria. Donations may be made to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Peoria or the Illinois Cancer Care Center in his honor. Cards can be sent from and condolences left at illinicremation.com