Patrick Michael McMillin, 67, passed away Friday, September 3, 2021, at Marquis Plaza Regency in Las Vegas. He was born July 10, 1954, in Berchtesgaden, Germany.

Patrick was adopted in 1956 by William R. McMillin and his then wife, Eyvonne, while they were stationed in England with the USAF. He spent much of his young childhood on military bases in several states including Hawaii and his teen years in both California and Colorado.

Patrick graduated high school in Fairplay, CO, in 1972. He received his AS degree at the Florida Institute of Technology. Pat then transferred to the University of Washington where he graduated in 1977 with a BA in Biological and Physical Sciences, with an emphasis in Oceanography. Later, Patrick received his Masters of Science at Navy Post Graduate School in Monterey, CA and attended Marine Corps Command and Staff College in Quantico, VA.  Patrick was enrolled in ROTC while attending the U of W and upon graduation was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy. He proudly served his country for 20 years assigned to the Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet and he rose to the rank of Commander.  Patrick was actively involved in both Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He served on the USS Kinkaid, the USS Albert David, the USS Wabash and his final deployment was as Executive Officer Afloat on the USS Brewton. He completed his naval career as Resource Manager of the J-8 Directorate, Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. During his career Patrick was awarded numerous medals including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, 3 Navy Commendation Medals, 3 Navy Achievement Medals and the Joint Meritorious Unit Award. Whenever on leave, Patrick traveled visiting family, friends and many different countries.  He enjoyed playing golf, bicycling and experiencing different cultures.  Patrick faced many challenges during his lifetime including a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) he received from a bicycling accident in 1995. His fortitude, grit and perseverance helped him through the 2 years of rehab relearning many basic physical functions and regaining his independence. Patrick focused on having a positive attitude usually laced with humor. His recovery was a remarkable journey that included resuming his love for running and practicing daily yoga. He was proud of finishing 37 marathons in 17 states during his lifetime. Patrick’s favorite motto after the accident was BTFL-TNTF: Better To Finish Last Than Not To Finish.  Patrick was an active member of the Desert Spring United Methodist Church in Las Vegas where he enjoyed bible study, playing in the bell choir and performing trumpet specials.  Patrick always put God, family and his country above himself. He loved to take pictures of his adventures to share with others. Those pictures reflect a rich life full of unique experiences.  Patrick cherished his family, shipmates, church, neighbors and all the friends he had made near and far.  He was married to Kathleen Schaeffer in 1987 and later divorced. Patrick is survived by his brother, Terry McMillin of Atchison, KS; his sisters, Sharon (Martin) McCallie of Edna, KS; Jeannette (Noel) Rueb of Atchison, KS, and his nephews, James McCallie and Jacob McCallie.  He was preceded in death by his parents William and Sarah McMillin.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, September 21, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at Desert Spring United Methodist Church with Rev. David Devereaux officiating. Interment will be held Tuesday, September 28, 2021, at 1:30 p.m. at Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, KS. Memorials are suggested to the Desert Spring United Methodist Church or to a veterans program of your choice and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home who is handling local arrangements. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.