Patrick Henry Delforge
Patrick Henry Delforge, a hell of a nice guy, 74, passed away, Monday, August 9, 2021. He was born March 21, 1947, the first-born son of Henry and Emily (Kusch) Delforge, brother to Mary Ann, Rita, Mike and Tom.
After graduating from Preble High School, his parents gave him the opportunity to attend DeVry University in Chicago, resulting in relocation to Cedar Rapids, Iowa and employment at Collins Radio Corporation.
He married Patricia Helen Rye on December 23, 1967, a constant source of love and support throughout his life. Shortly after, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving 3 years, including a 1-year stint in Vietnam. He was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division, flying helicopter courier duty during the Tet Offensive. Following his tour in Vietnam, he was stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas where their son Kevin Patrick was born.
After being honorably discharged and being awarded a Bronze Star, Patrick returned to Green Bay to resume his education, attending NWTC. He was a furniture salesman at Snider and Daanen until the store’s closing, then manager of Wisconsin Furniture Mart, also doing furniture touch up and repair on the side. He worked at Cape Townsend in Algoma, building and installing cabinets. He later worked at Western Lime Corp. until 2009 retirement.
Patrick was solid in his faith, and an active member of St. Bernard Parish, ushering there for over 40 years. He was a “lifetime” member of Windjammers Sailing Club, most recently serving on the board and running the committee boat for races. He was a member of the Preble Optimist Club, the Hilltop Lunch Gang, a charter member and past-president of Bellevue East-Town Optimist Club. Patrick was also a lifetime member of the Green Bay Chapter #224 VVA, serving with the Color and Honor Guards, participating in monthly activities, parades, POW vigils and honorary Harley rides.
In retirement, he and VVA buddy, Pete, were called to the Neenah High Schools every year to talk to students about the Vietnam War, something Patrick found very rewarding. As do many other Vietnam Veterans, Patrick endured PTSD and found refuge working with the VVA gardens and participating in Vet Center group meetings.
Family members who have gone before include his parents, Henry and Emily Delforge: a brother, Michael Delforge; and a sister, Mary Ann Zeutzius.
Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Kevin and Kimberly (Knauf) Delforge, and the mother of their son and wind beneath his wings, Patricia; a brother, Thomas (Jayne); a sister, Rita (Carl Freeland); a sister-in-law, Barb Schmit; other relatives and too many friends to mention.
Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 10:50 a.m. Friday at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 2040 Hillside Dr. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Friday at the church with Rev. Mark VanderSteeg officiating. Full Military Honors will conclude the services. Burial will be in SS. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Cemetery. A Memorial Fund has been established for Unity Hospice.
What do you say of a life well lived, other than he will be greatly missed. Finally at peace…now in God’s Country.