James Pat Ferguson

James 'Pat' Ferguson a�" Chatfield James "Pat" Ferguson, 93, of Chatfield, died Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012, at the Chosen Valley Care Center in Chatfield. Jim was born May 21, 1919, in rural Wykoff, to Michael and Anna (Sweeny) Ferguson. During World War II he served in the 32nd Infantry F Co., 7th Division, as a machine gunner. While serving in the Pacific Theater he was wounded three times and received the Purple Heart, two Oak Leaf Clusters; four Bronze Stars and was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross by General MacArthur in 1944. On Dec. 27, 1947, he married Gerry Warden in Chatfield. Following the war he returned home to continue his career as a stone mason with his father. He traveled throughout the U.S. working for various contractors. During his tenure as a stone mason he also owned and operated Pat & Gerry's Tavern for 17 years. Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, war books and vacationing in Las Vegas for 30 years. Being 100 percent Irish, he is best known for his great sense of humor and his love for life. He always had a joke to share with everyone right up to the end of his days. He is survived by his three daughters, Judy (Lawrence) Priebe, Ann (Dean) Onsgard and Patty (Richard) Delaney. Jim as seven grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, two brothers, John and Larry, and four sisters, Francis, Mary, Helen and Pat. We have all been blessed to be able to call him dad, grandpa, brother and friend. We love you and thank you for being the best dad imaginable; you will always be our Hero. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 2, at the Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield, and will continue one hour prior to the services at the church on Monday. A memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 3, at St. Marys Catholic Church in Chatfield, with Father Shawn Haremaz officiating. Burial will be in the Calvary Cemetery in Chatfield, with graveside services by the VFW of Chatfield Post #6913. A Celebration of Life will be held at the VFW in Chatfield following the services. Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield is in charge of arrangements. (507) 867-4310. Online condolences may be made at www.rileyfuneralhomes. com