Richard A. Patnode

Beloved husband, father and grandfather, Richard (Dick) Patnode, age 82, of Green Bay, WI, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 7, 2025, after courageously battling cancer for five and a half years.

Dick was born in Reedsburg, WI on September 3, 1942, to Emma Patnode-Berg (nee Feight) and Wayne Patnode. He grew up in Green Bay and attended Green Bay East High School before enlisting in the U.S. Navy at the age of 17.

On January 21, 1972, Dick married the love of his life, Joan Van Egeren. They spent 52 years together--deeply in love, occasionally driving each other a little crazy, and building a beautiful life side by side. Together they had a daughter, Nichole (Patnode) Holzem, who remained devoted to her father until his final days.

Dick spent most of his career as a CAD designer and machinist, known for his meticulous attention to detail. He retired from Krueger Sentry Gauge in 2010. In his free time, he loved working on his cherished Corvette and spending time on the golf course--though he was more known for his hacking than his handicap. Above all, he was a proud grandfather to Delaney, who brought him endless joy. Whether watching her play soccer or sharing her love of animals, their bond was one of his greatest treasures.

Dick is survived by his loving wife, Joan; daughter Nichole (Joe) Holzem; granddaughter Delaney Holzem; sisters Donna (Tom) LaCombe, Nancy (Craig) Dexheimer; brother Bill (Dee) Patnode; sister-in-law Cindy Patnode; and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emma and Wayne, and brothers Gerald and Jim Patnode.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Green Bay Oncology for their compassionate care throughout Dick's journey.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Dick's honor on Friday, July 25th, from 11:30-3:30 at The Rite Place, 1580 Bellevue St, Green Bay, WI.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Dick's name to the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=UTRC8FQ6H9WUY