Patrick Gerard Hesch

Patrick Hesch, age 62, of Wyoming (formerly of Mason), Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 18, 1963, in Fort McClellan, Alabama, to Russell and Catherine Hesch, Patrick lived a life rooted in deep love—for nature, his work, and, most of all, his family.

Patrick graduated from Detroit Catholic Central High School in 1981. He met Christine Cornwell at Alma College, and on August 18, 1984, they married—beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures. Patrick completed a 3/2 dual-degree program through Alma College and the University of Michigan, earning bachelor's degrees in both Biology and Forestry.

His professional journey took him to ACRT and Cottage Gardens before he found his dream job as an arborist at Michigan State University. There, he dedicated himself to the care and preservation of trees, helping to protect Michigan's Elms and Ash trees from disease.

Patrick had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed camping, visiting National Parks, and sharing his passion for nature with those around him. Beyond his career, Patrick gave back to his community as a soccer coach, church usher, band booster, Boy Scout leader, Order of the Arrow , and even as a Green Knight in Girl Scouting. He had a gift for stepping up wherever help was needed.

Patrick is survived by his beloved wife, Christine (née Cornwell) Hesch of Wyoming, Michigan, and their three children: Stephannie (Danny) Hearit of DeWitt, Janelle (Ryan) Popa of Caledonia, and Jacob (Taylor) Hesch of Saginaw. He was a devoted grandfather to Jay and Grayson Hearit and Vivian and Eloise Popa, all of whom brought him endless joy and pride. He is also survived by his parents, Russell and Catherine Hesch of West Branch; his brother David Hesch of West Branch; and his sister Caroline (Adam) Westmoreland.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Hesch of Redford, and by his parents-in-law, David and Kathryn Cornwell of Mason.

Patrick’s presence was a steady, grounding force—a quiet strength and kind soul who brought comfort with his big smile and wonderful laugh.

Visitation will be held Monday, July 7, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes – Mason Chapel, 621 South Jefferson, Mason, MI 48854.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church, 1010 S. Lansing St., Mason, MI 48854. Patrick will be laid to rest in Maple Grove Cemetery, 213 N. Jefferson St., Mason, MI 48854, with a luncheon to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to ReLeaf Michigan, supporting tree planting efforts across the state to help make Michigan greener and healthier:

ReLeaf Michigan, 1100 N. Main St. #105 Ann Arbor, MI 48104 https://www.releafmichigan.org/