John "Pat" Blakeslee

John Patrick Blakeslee “Pat” was not a man who’s life could be recounted within the confines of this text. With that in mind, the characteristics and accomplishments most cherished by his surviving family are as follows: Pat lived out his life with unwavering faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ. He was a radical man with radical faith. Pat was a profoundly committed husband to his wife and best friend Jeannine. Honoring his covenant to “cherish his dearly beloved” until death did he part. Pat was a self-taught autobody repair man and could fix anything and worked until the job was done, regardless of the task. He was forever a teacher of life skills and took every opportunity to coach his family.

Family was Pat’s life, love and greatest joy. He was a protector, encourager, and advocate for those in his life. Whether it was his siblings, his children, his grand babies, or his circle of friends that he counted kin, Pat was never happier than to be in fellowship with his people. Some of his favorite spots to fellowship were around a pool table, at deer camp, in a fishing boat, at a campsite, on a motorcycle, or in his garage. Pat had a spirit of adventure and always looked for an opportunity to create experiences for his family.

Pat was born on November 5, 1952, and raised in the greater Cleveland, Ohio region. He was number 4 of 10 children. His jobs included Merchant Marine, owner and operator of Pat’s Autobody, and account manager for multiple automotive finish distributors. He passed away on Saturday, April 30, 2022, surrounded by his family in Wausau, Wisconsin.

Pat is survived by his spouse Jeannine, children: Patrick (spouse Jenna/children: Jolene, John, Delilah, Abel), Jeremy (spouse Miranda), Rebecca (spouse Jeremiah Olson), Ryan, Daniel (spouse Isabelle/child: Rosemary), and Jason, siblings: Connie, Jimmy, Mark, Ellen, Megan, Julie, Katherine, and Sarah. He was preceded in death by his brother Todd and his parents Joanne and Pete.

A visitation will be held on Friday, May 6, 2022, from 4:00 pm to 7:30 pm with a prayer service starting at 7:30 pm all at Waid Funeral Home. Private family interment to take place.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.