Who was Patrick Serzynski? Illinois man dubbed as 'avid outdoorsman' who went missing while hunting in Fourth Lake found dead
CHICAGO, ILLINIOS: A 60-year-old man who went missing while hunting in Fourth Lake in Illinois was found dead on Saturday, November 4, according to authorities.
Patrick Serzynski, an “avid outdoorsman” and a retired electrician, who loved hunting and fishing, was last seen on Monday, October 30, when he set out on a hunting trip on his boat.
Patrick Serzynski's boat and belongings were found, but he remained missing
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office said Serzynski’s boat and personal items were located near the lake the day he went missing, but there was no sign of him.
Following his disappearance, a massive search operation, involving multiple agencies and volunteers, was launched.
On Saturday, November 4, a body believed to be Serzynski based on clothing and a general description was recovered, the sheriff’s office said.
Foul play not suspected in Patrick Serzynski's death
Foul play is not suspected and the cause and manner of death are pending an autopsy and toxicology results, according to WLS.
Serzynski’s obituary described him as an “avid outdoorsman” who enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, four-wheeling, and any other outdoor adventure that came his way.
It said, "Pat was doing one of the things he loved the most. He was married to Kimberley for 30 years and had a son, Patrick Donald Serzynski, who was his “greatest joy."
He joined the IBEW Local Union 150 as an apprentice and had 38 years of service as an electrician, retiring as the Local Union 150 Business Manager in 2022.
The obituary said Serzynski taught his son how to fish and hunt, coached his floor hockey team, worked with him on cars, and shared many precious moments with him.
“Pat and Kim just celebrated 30 wonderful years of marriage in September. They had endless adventures, mishaps, and cherished times,” the obituary said.
Patrick Serzynski’s family and friends thanked the search and rescue teams, community for their support
Serzynski’s family and friends expressed their gratitude to all the people who helped in the search and rescue mission.
The family also thanked friends, neighbors, relatives, and the community for their love and support during this difficult time.
A celebration of Serzynski’s life was held at the Shanty Restaurant in Wadsworth, Illinois on Sunday, November 5.
Serzynski was preceded in death by his father Patrick Serzynski and brother and sister-in-law Don and Sheryl Nelson.
He is survived by his wife, son, brother, sister, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, and several great-nieces and nephews.