David Alan “Dave” Patten

PORTAGE – David Alan “Dave” Patten, age 55, of Portage, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at his home.

Dave was born on May 23, 1970, to parents Ron and Marion (Harvey) Patten. He graduated from Portage High School in 1989, where he played basketball and football.  He went to state as a very young wrestler. Dave then went on to UW Stout to study hotel and restaurant management.  Pursuing his education, Dave went to work at National Sports Center for many years.  He returned to his hometown, Portage, and worked for Kruger Industry in shipping and receiving.  He also worked at Cascade Ski Resort.  You’ll never find anyone who loved sports more than Dave, especially Wisconsin sports teams, the Packers and Brewers.  He was an avid animal lover, especially dogs and cats.  At a young age, he loved watersports and spent many vacations up in Minocqua.  David was very meticulous, whether it was his house or his vehicles.  He was a good son and loved spending time with family and friends.

His smile will be missed.  From his mother:  I love you so much, David.  You will never die and will always live in my heart.

He is survived by his father, Ron (Joy Morse) Patten;  his mother, Marion Patten;  his brother, Mike (Carina) Patten and nephew, Gabe;  his aunt, Muriel Shortreed;  his cousins, Cam (Jeff) Kolseth and Brent Kolseth, Cheryl (Kevin) Malone, Cari (Tim) Lopez, Tami Shortreed and Steve (Paula) Shortreed;  his very special friends whom he considered his brothers, Kyle Geltmeyer and Quinn Malone;  other relatives and many friends.  He was preceded in death by his Gramma Anita, Grampa Ernest, Aunt Nancy, grandparents, Lloyd and Helen Harvey, and his uncle and aunt, Roger and Phyllis Kolseth.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Oak Grove Cemetery.

The Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage is assisting the family.

A Letter From My Son In Heaven

When tomorrow starts without me and I’m not here to see;
If the sun should rise and find your eyes filled with tears for me.
I wish so much you wouldn’t cry the way you did today;
While thinking of the many things we didn’t get to say.
I know how much you love me as much as I love you;
And each time that you think of me,
I know you’ll miss me too.
When tomorrow starts without me,
Don’t think we’re far apart.
For every time you think of me,
I’m right here in your heart.