Patrick J. Scherrer, 74, of Burlington, passed away peacefully on Dec. 15, 2023, after a sudden decline in health.
Patrick “Pat” was born Jan. 2, 1949, to Elmer and Agnes (Elverman) Scherrer in New Munster and was the youngest of twelve children. He attended St. Alphonsus Catholic Elementary School and Catholic Central High School, graduating from CCHS in 1967. Upon graduation, he served four years in the U.S. Army before graduating from Madison Area Technical College with a degree in Architecture. He was fond of recalling adventures in Germany during basic training, shivering in snowed in ground holes.
After several initial jobs in restaurants and construction, Pat worked for Brennan and Otto for several years in administration before obtaining his certificate in Building Inspection and working for the Cities of Sturtevant and Burlington as City Building Inspector, spanning over 20 years as a public servant. He very much enjoyed the challenge of his chosen career, and with an education and background in architecture, found a return to home in it. He was known as a “rule follower” and could point out an inconsistency in building or housing code with immediacy – giving him the appearance of being strict. However, those who knew him understood it was more a matter of him taking his role seriously and believing in strong structures that kept people and their loved ones safe.
Pat was affable and loved to laugh when not enforcing codes. He had a silly sense of humor that those who loved him will miss and reminisce fondly about.
Pat enjoyed reading, the outdoors, exercise, and travel. He had a particular interest in hiking, kayaking and biking, and prided himself on his knowledge of area trails and foliage. He noticed details and could tell anyone where the most majestic trees and vibrant flowers could be found on any area trail. He was a person who appreciated the joys day to day life can bring and was fond of a cup of coffee with family and friends, sharing inside jokes, and discussing new books, current events, or engaging in large, philosophical questions about the meaning of life and the universe. His family and friends will miss his curious spirit and bright mind. Pat had a fervor for life and was keenly aware of the preciousness of it.
Patrick was predeceased by a son, Benjamin Scherrer; his parents Elmer and Agnes Scherrer; brothers Elmer (Barbara), Norman (Joy), Thomas, and Joseph Scherrer; and sister Charlotte Scherrer.
He is survived by brother Edward Scherrer; sisters Joan, Barbara, Marlene, Carolyn (Jim) Bauman, and Kathryn; children, Sam Scherrer and Emily (Daniel) Duchon; and grandsons Elliot and Arch Duchon.
Even after his diagnosis of cancer, he was planning his next trip and looking forward to future hikes with his young grandsons. Such was Pat’s optimism.
According to Pat’s wishes, there are no services planned. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the 12 and 12 Club of Burlington. The family wants to extend a special thank you to the team members at Aurora Hospital of Burlington and Carol Ellsworth for their loyalty and care at the end of life.
Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home is serving the family. Well-wishers may visit www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com.
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