WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Patrick Joseph Hempel, age 59, was called home by the Lord on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. He was born in Three Rivers Hospital on Oct. 29, 1959 the son of Robert L. and Sarah F. “Sally” (Thorsdale) Hempel. Pat graduated from Mendon High School with the class of 1978 and later earned his Associate Degree at Glen Oaks Community College. He was a machinist by trade and had worked for numerous companies. He was also a licensed truck driver, a former Emergency Medical Technician with Mendon Ambulance Service, and had volunteered as a reserve with the Mendon Police Department.
Patrick enjoyed bicycling, scuba diving, and kayaking. He was a student of nature and had great concerns for the health of the ocean and our planet. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and especially enjoyed game days in Chicago. He has resided the past five years in Grand Rapids after several years in Hawaii where he took great comfort in learning to care for his Bonsai trees. He also taught himself to create art works from wood. His struggles in later life prevented him from working full time, but he enjoyed staying in touch through social media.
Patrick is survived by five brothers and a sister, Robert (Kathy) Hempel, Jr. of Three Rivers, John Hempel of Taylor, Jim (Jacquie) Hempel of Bend, OR, Dennis (Karen) Hempel of Mendon, Kevin Hempel of Phoenix, AZ, Jeanine (Steve) Vogler of Kentwood, and Marty (Cassondra) Hempel of White Pigeon; many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Eileen Hempel; a brother, Thomas Hempel; and by three nieces, Tamara, Brittany, and Sarah.
In keeping with his wishes, a private service will be held followed by interment with other family members at St. Edward Cemetery in Mendon. It is suggested that memorial donations be directed to either the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission, 448 N. Burdick, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 or to Mel Trotter Ministries, 225 Commerce Ave., SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Assistance was provided by the Eickhoff Funeral Home of Mendon. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com
