Patrick R. Lathrop, 57, passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at Essentia Health-St. Mary's Medical Center in Duluth, Minnesota following significant head trauma.

Patrick Ryan Lathrop was born January 17, 1969 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, the son of Burton H. and Maxine Y. (Zwingelberg) Lathrop. Patrick graduated from Hill City High School and continued his education, first earning his Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and later a Master's degree in Criminal Justice Leadership from Bemidji State University and Concordia University-St. Paul respectively. He completed numerous trainings over the years relating to mental health and overall well-being of individuals and families. Throughout his career he worked at mental health facilities in Central and Northern Minnesota and was highly regarded by his peers.

On June 15, 1991, Patrick was united in marriage to his soulmate, Rachel Lynn McNeil.  Patrick and Rachel met in 1983, began dating in 1989, and were married in 1991.  Patrick and Rachel made their home in several communities around Minnesota, including Brainerd, Little Falls, Waite Park, and finally moving "home" to Hill City.

Patrick loved being a dad to his daughter and sons. He did everything from coaching Little League & Girl's Softball teams to planting flowers at their home each year with his kids. He was always present and appreciated their time together.

Patrick was an avid Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Gopher, Oregon Ducks, Minnesota Wild, and Minnesota Timberwolves fan!  Any sporting event on television would catch his attention and he would switch channels if two teams he followed were playing simultaneously! In fact, on Rachel and Patrick's wedding day, he snuck away to check the score of the baseball game!  A highlight for Patrick was going to the "Field of Dreams" baseball stadium in Dyersville, Iowa.

Patrick's strong faith held much significance in his life.  He was proud to say he "Loved Jesus" and worshiped at his church.  If you ever looked at his Instagram posts, it was evident he knew scripture verses and enjoyed sharing them with everyone.

Rachel and Patrick seemed to always be together from the time they started dating.  They were in love with each other and were also best friends!  When he was surrounded by his three adult children, and his two dogs Dani and Butters, his life was the happiest.  He also liked to go fishing and immerse himself in his Bible or a good book.

His death leaves such emptiness for his family, however Patrick often considered dying as "retirement to heaven."  He has truly earned his retirement and will be missed by everyone he knew.

Patrick will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 37 years, Rachel; daughter, Hayley Lathrop (Ari Marine); sons, Jarrett Lathrop and Toby Lathrop; a "bonus daughter," Abbie Knapp; his mother-in-law, Norma McNeil (Joe Tix); his siblings, Steve (Lois) Lathrop, Lynn (Larry) LeSarge, David Lathrop, and Patti Hansen; numerous nieces and nephews; professional colleagues, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Maxine and Burton Lathrop; his "favorite big brother," Greg Lathrop, and sister-in-law, Brenda Lathrop.

Patrick's family would like to acknowledge the Essentia-St. Mary's Ninth Floor Trauma ICU nurses, doctors, and staff for the unending superb care Patrick received as well as the kindness, care, and love that was extended to his family.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 8:00 PM Friday, March 20, 2026 at Assembly of God – Hill City, 102 Lake Avenue East, Hill City, Minnesota 55748.  A Memorial Service to honor Patrick will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the church with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM until time of the service.