Patrick Todd Mihaljevic

Patrick Mihaljevic, age 37, died suddenly on July 25, 2022. He is survived by his mom, Lynda. His dad, Gerry, died in 2011. Patrick also leaves behind a large extended family and many fast friends.

Patrick was a funny and curious kid. Back in the day, he loved dinosaurs and had a whole herd of them to play with. We took a trip in 1993 to Dinosaur National Monument, where he was completely blown away by those gigantic fossils. The Ninja Turtles were a big deal, too. He became an unabashed Star Wars geek after seeing the first 3 movies in 1997. A few action figures grew into literally thousands. His collection of all things Star Wars is in the stratosphere!

Patrick thoroughly enjoyed our annual trips to Wisconsin to visit both sides of the family. Always a blast! He and I were there in June. Our pontoon rides were always a highlight.

Patrick joined Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, loved the camping trips - even the ones in winter! At 14, he was one of 6 from his troop chosen to take a week long rowing trip on the Boundary Waters on Lake Superior. What a fabulous adventure!

We all traveled to France in 2002 to visit Lynda's sister and brother in law. Oo la la! From time in Paris to medieval castles to wine country to a castle being built from scratch by volunteers using only materials and methods used in medieval times, it was an unforgettable trip.

Patrick graduated in 2003, and attended the University of Northern Colorado for a time. He earned an Associates degree from.Aurora Community College.

He worked at Ross, Barnes & Noble, and for the last 4 years at two different rehab centers as a cook. He took after his dad, who was a wonderful, innovative cook.

Our more recent travels were back to France, then to Ireland (the grass really is that green), then in 2020 a road trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. All were spectacular! He and his best friend were planning a journey to Japan next year to celebrate 20 years of friendship.

The last 2 years, we were faithful patrons of our nearby Beer Garden. It's a nice respite where we relaxed, enjoyed a drink or two, listened to good music, and just chilled. I'll carry on that fun tradition and always raise a glass to my sidekick!

Patrick was a laid back, hilarious, intuitive guy who was a wonderful son and fantastic friend. He reveled in the spirited family reunions and enjoyed his alone time, too.

Patrick's untimely death is an unimaginable loss to us all. He was my savior when his dad died. I'll miss his hefty hugs and off the wall humor. But we'll always have an overflowing treasure trove of memories that can't be stolen. Let's hang on tightly to that. And always raise a glass heavenward!