Patrick James McKenzie

Patrick James McKenzie, 58, of Vermilion passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at his home.  He was born October 3, 1967 in Bellevue the son of Rev. James P. and Mary (Drown) McKenzie. 

Pat graduated from Bellevue High School in 1986, where he played the sousaphone in the band and was a member of FFA. Pat initially worked at Mid-Ohio Chemical, but his most cherished work was helping his Grandpa Drown on the family farm. He then continued his education at Marietta College, graduating in 1995 as a member of the choir. While in Marietta, Pat served as a student pastor and provided pulpit supply at Paw Paw UMC in Warner, Ohio.

 In 1996, he transitioned to a career at Century Link, working as a service technician until his retirement in 2019. During this time, he was highly involved with CWA Local Union 4302, serving as a union representative.

Pat was dedicated to his faith, serving in numerous church roles throughout his life. He was a member of the Praise Team at the former Seybert UMC in Bellevue. He also served in the technical department at The Chapel in Sandusky for seven years, including three years as the volunteer technical director.

Affectionately known as “Uncle Purple” to his beloved nieces and nephews, Pat deeply enjoyed supporting them and spending time with family. He was an excellent cook and enjoyed playing video games. A passionate sports fan, he avidly supported Cleveland sports—the Browns, Cavs, and "Indians"—as well as The Ohio State Buckeyes.

He is survived by the love of his life, Michelle (Johnson), whom he married on May 12, 2024 in a beachside ceremony in Carolla, North Carolina; two sisters, Jackie (Mike) Becks of Bellevue and Victoria (David) Elswick of Castalia; step-son, Matthew Steckel of Vermilion; uncle, Lonnie (Jean) McKenzie of FL; aunt, Phyllis Drown of Michigan; nieces and nephews, Kylin (Kourtney) Elswick, Aaron (Makayla) Becks, Charles “C.J.” (Hayley) Elswick, Joshua Becks, Emily Becks, Daniel Becks, Rachel Becks, Amber Luma, and Ethan Luma; 5 great nephews and niece; sister-in-law, Natasha (Blaine) Luma-Stearns of Port Clinton; special cousin, Andrew (Melissa) Drown of Michigan; mother-in-law, Julie Doyle and numerous cousins and family.

Pat is preceded in death by his parents and father-in-law, Stanley B. Doyle.

Friends will be received on Monday, March 16, 2025 from 4-7 p.m. at Foos & Foos Funeral Service, 151 Yorkshire Place, Bellevue.  Additional calling hours will begin at 10 a.m. until a funeral service begins at 11 a.m. at The Chapel-Sandusky Campus, 4444 Galloway Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870.  Burial will follow at Catawba Island Cemetery.

Memorial donations in Pat’s memory may be made to The Chapel.