Francis J. Pattison
Francis Joseph Pattison
June 12, 1950 – July 26, 2025
Francis J. Pattison, 75, unexpectedly passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 26, 2025, at his home in Mondovi, Wisconsin. Fran attended Lima School and graduated from Mondovi High School in 1968. After furthering his education at UW-River Falls, he spent time working on a ranch in Montana, and then moved back to Wisconsin, where he worked for Mathy Construction. After his brother Mike’s accident, Fran dedicated himself to the family farm and later retired from Andersen Windows.
Fran married Karen Helland on September 1, 1979, at Meridean Lutheran Church, and together they had three children. Known for his engaging conversations, Fran had a natural ability to make people feel valued, with a quick wit that put everyone at ease.
For Fran, there was no greater peace than being out in nature, whether he was hunting, canoeing, fishing, or even driving tractor in the fields. He was also an avid reader and enjoyed the thoughtful programming on PBS and WPR. After raising his children, spending time with his grandchildren brought him great happiness and pride.
Fran is survived by his wife, Karen; children, Dylan (Ashley), Cody (Emma), and Deidra; his grandchildren, Corah, Gabi, Arlo, Luella, and Cullen. He is also survived by his siblings, Bob (Kathy), Ed (Beth), both of Durand, Jim (Martha) of Viroqua, Kathy Roberg of Madison, Patti (Mark) Slaughter of Hastings, MN, and Aimee (Dan) Fien of Rochester, NY; his sister-in-law, Dorothy (Dan) Baader of Nelson; and in-laws Ruth (Ron) Moran of Rochester, MN, Loyd Helland, Lois Helland, both of Mondovi; his aunts June, Leona, Marion, and Darlene; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Mary Ann (Kinney) Pattison, and his brother, Michael Pattison.
A service to celebrate Fran's life will be 2:00 PM Friday August 1, 2025, at Central Lutheran Church in Mondovi.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM Thursday at Rhiel Funeral Home in Durand and one hour prior to services at the church on Friday.