Patrick R. Van Ert

Patrick Roger Van Ert, born on August 26, 1948 in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, peacefully departed this world on September 19, 2026 surrounded by his beloved family and friends at Zilber Family Hospice. He faced his battle with cancer with remarkable grace and fortitude, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter.

The Van Ert family moved back to Milwaukee in 1951 where Pat attended Holy Angels and then St. Elizabeth grade schools. A proud graduate of Messmer High School in 1966, Pat's career path led him to Findley Adhesive in 1972, where he was a dedicated worker and a cherished colleague for 39 years. Pat was described as a “class act” who employees “enjoyed learning from and laughing with”. They also “enjoyed the tales of his travels”. Pat remained in contact with many of those previous co-workers until his passing having retiree lunches or other get-togethers just for the fun of it.

Pat was an adventurer at heart finding joy in traveling both near and far with many friends and family. Destinations included Spain, Australia, New Zealand, Amsterdam, Hungary, Dominican Republic, Columbia, Hawaii and multiple locations in Mexico to name a few. The peak of his adventures, however, was literally a peak. On March 3, 2015 at 6:30 AM Pat successfully climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest in Africa to Uhuru Peak 5895m at the age of 68.

He also found great joy on the pickleball court playing 4-6 times a week, and you were lucky when you were on his side of the net. Returning one of his powerful serves was an accomplishment in itself. Whether he was playing in a friendly match or teaching someone new to the game, Pat brought enthusiasm and encouragement to everyone around him. He will be remembered by his fellow players not only for his skill on the court but also for the kindness, sportsmanship, and camaraderie he shared with all who knew him.

Pat had a pretty distinctive taste in fun, characterful performance cars. His burnt orange Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder and mid 90’s black Pontiac Firebird Trans Am 6 Speed turned heads when he took them out on the road. His red 2016 Camaro V8 with a louder exhaust setup “announced his arrival” before he actually arrived! For trips to the grocery store, one of his Audi’s would suffice. You could say he loved cars with personality.

Having that love of cars you could often find Pat at a local car show, engaged in active conversation. He loved discussing the latest automotive technology and on the classic vintage vehicle styles of long ago.

Beyond his professional life, Pat's dedication to his community shone brightly as he served on his condominium board as vice president and then president from 1995 to 2019. He resided there until his passing for 33 years, fostering friendships with his neighbors and attending meetings with his signature smile and courteous demeanor.

Known for his quick wit and warm smile, Pat was always ready with a joke, and his kindness and generosity touched countless lives. A devoted volunteer, Pat dedicated his time and energy to numerous organizations and events, including German Fest, Lakefront Festival of the Arts, Mai Fest, among many others. His passion for service and his ability to bring joy to those around him were hallmarks of his character.

Pat was the cherished son of the late Albert (Bert) and Joyce (Hogeboom) Van Ert. He is predeceased by his brothers Gary and Peter, his sister Mary Therese, and brothers-in-law James Klopp, Carl Holzbauer, and Robert Treder. His spirit and kindness live on in the hearts of his surviving family: siblings Sandra O'Donnell (Thomas Box), Sheila Klopp, Michael (Pamela) Van Ert, Perry (Kim) Van Ert, Shelly Holzbauer, Sheryl Treder, Tyler (RaeAnn) Van Ert, Susan (Leo) LeCroix, Scott (Cindy) Van Ert, Stephanie (Michael) Struver, and sister-in-law Flora Van Ert.

A celebration of Pat's life will be held Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at Schramka Funeral Home located at 13220 W. Capitol Drive, Brookfield, WI. Visitation is from 4:00 to 6:00 PM with a Funeral Service at 6:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, Tunnel to Towers, or another charity close to your heart.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at Froedtert Hospital for their years of compassionate oncology care, and Zilber Family Hospice for their care and support during Pat's final days. Through the love and memories he leaves behind, Patrick Van Ert's remarkable life will be cherished forever.