Patrick V. Doherty Jr.

Patrick Vincent Doherty, Jr. was called home to heaven on January 2, 2025, at the age of 77 years.

Patrick (also known by his family as “Rick” and “Pat”) was born in Adrian, MN on March 23, 1947, to Patrick and G. Melva (Wagner) Doherty. He was baptized and lived in Ellsworth, MN, with his parents and six siblings, until he went to college at St. John’s University, Collegeville, MN. 

Pat taught physics at Park Center Senior High School in Brooklyn Park for 36 years, and was named “Teacher of the Year” prior to his retirement. He enjoyed time spent at the hobby farm, cabin, and attending the many sporting events of his beloved grandkids. Pat was quick to welcome others into the family and was always ready for a boat ride or conversation over coffee. Pat was well-read, thoughtful, played a mean hand of 500, loved a good crossword puzzle and had a knack for storytelling.

Over 46 years, Pat and Dee lived on their hobby farm where they worked hard raising three boys, a big garden, dogs and many horses. Pat and the family enjoyed showing their horses in 4-H and at the MN State Fair for many years. They also went on many trail rides and camping trips out west with many good friends. Other family fun included snowmobiling, downhill skiing, and being on the lake at the cabin. Pat kept all the vehicles, horses, and gear at-the-ready as the big family enjoyed lots of time together.

Whether you met Patrick Doherty for 20 minutes, or knew him for 20 years, his kind heart likely left a lasting impression. He will be dearly missed.

Patrick is preceded in death by his parents Patrick Sr. and Melva (Wagner) Doherty, and brothers, Michael Doherty and Dennis Doherty, and brother-in-law, Bill Ostrom. He is survived by his wife, Deanne, and sons, Casey (Leslie) of Mankato, MN, Ryan, of Loretto, MN, and Jason (Diana), of Princeton, MN, and his six grandsons Graham, Leo, Dylan, Jack, Barrett, and Rowan. He is also survived by siblings, Kathleen McKenzie, and her husband, Jerry, of Ida Grove, IA, Joanne Ostrom, Faribault, MN, John Doherty, and his wife, Susan, Scottsdale, AZ, Tracy Doherty, and his wife Lisa, of Lake Benton, MN, and sister-in-law, Geneva Doherty, Littleton, CO. Pat is also survived by many nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Memorial service at 11:00 AM on Friday, January 17, 2025 at St. John Lutheran Church, 13045 Fremont St, Zimmerman, MN, with visitation starting at 10:00 AM, with a luncheon following.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Patrick V. Doherty Jr., please visit our floral store.