Patrick Michels

Remembering the Life of Patrick (Pat) James Michels

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Patrick (Pat) James Michels, who left this world on June 23, 2025, at the age of 73. Born on February 25, 1952, to Arthur and Viola Michels in North Dakota, Pat was the second oldest out of his three siblings and spent his formative years in the quiet farming community of Munich. He graduated from Munich High School and went on to attend the University of North Dakota, where he proudly became a Fighting Sioux, forever bleeding green, white, and black.

Throughout his life, Pat embodied adventure and resilience. Following his graduation in 1975, he embarked on a journey that took him from North Dakota to Florida, where he and his friends explored the unknown. In 1979, he entered into marriage, and in 1981, welcomed his beloved son, Ross. Later, falling out of union in 1989. Although life led to new paths and challenges, Pat’s sense of exploration, hard work, and family remained steadfast.

Pat had a diverse career across several states, working in Washington, Minnesota, then returning to North Dakota. His professional journey brought him back to Grand Forks, where he enjoyed tailgating at UND football games and supporting his Fighting Sioux at nearly every basketball and hockey game with his closest friends and family. In 2009, Patrick settled in Fargo, seeking to be closer to his cherished son and family. Pat’s adventurous spirit was matched only by his love for travel. Creating lasting memories, he took family trips across the Southeast and the West Coast, by car or train only. He treasured weekends at his camping spot at Tracy’s Resort on Leaf Lake, MN, and sought warmth in Arizona during the colder months, fully embracing life.

Pat cherished time spent with his loved ones; he never missed an opportunity to attend his grandsons’ sporting events, school functions, and important milestones, showing his unwavering support and love. He was able to share his passion for UND by bringing them to their first Sioux game.

Pat was preceded in death by his mother, Viola, and father, Arthur. Pat leaves behind a loving son, Ross Michels and his significant other Jessica Rykowsky of Fargo; his cherished grandsons, Shay Michels, Liam Michels, Kamden Lee; siblings, Vic (Cande) Michels, Grand Forks, ND, Barb (Steve) Dick, West Fargo, ND, and Jan Michels, Post Falls, ID; along with countless friends and family members who will remember him with great affection.

Services will be private at the request of Patrick Michels.