Stephen Patrick

Stephen Leroy Patrick, 76, of Ohio, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2024. He was born on February 29, 1948, in Dayton, OH, to the late Dorothy and John Patrick.

Steve graduated from Belmont High School in Dayton, OH. He continued his education at Wittenberg University in Springfield, OH, where he earned his bachelor's degree. Following his calling to ministry, Steve obtained his Master of Divinity from Gettysburg Theological Seminary in Gettysburg, PA.

After his ordination, Steve dedicated his life to serving others through his work in the Lutheran Church. He ministered to congregations across Ohio, including Magnolia Lutheran, and Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran in Sandyville, Grace Lutheran in Dover, St. Luke's Lutheran in Mansfield, Faith Lutheran in Lakewood, Emmanuel Lutheran in New Philadelphia, and First Lutheran in Beach City.

Before and during his ordained ministry, Steve served on the summer staff at Camp Mowana and Camp Luther. He continued his dedication to these camps for many years as a volunteer chaplain, where he was affectionately known as "Sugar Pops". 

Steve is survived by his loving wife, Ruth Nesbitt Patrick; his son, Martin Patrick and daughter-in-law Maggie of Atlanta, GA; his brother, Dennis Patrick and sister-in-law Nina of Burleson, TX; his half-sister, Carol Marshall and brother-in-law Morry of Phoenix, AZ; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family wishes to extend their most sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff of Park Village Health Care Center, Dover, and Community Hospice Truman House in New Philadelphia for their care and concern for Steve.

Steve will be remembered for his dedication to his faith, his commitment to his flocks, and his love for his family. He touched many lives through his ministry, his work at summer camps, and his always welcoming personality. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, especially those who knew him as their beloved "Sugar Pops".

Visitation will be held in the Emmanuel Lutheran Church on Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A service celebrating his life will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 12:30 p.m. Burial will take place in East Avenue Cemetery at New Philadelphia following the funeral service.

Memorial contributions in Rev. Patrick’s memory may be directed to the Organ Restoration Fund of Emmanuel Lutheran Church.