Lifelong Leavenworth resident, Patrick "Pat" Craig Vossmer, age 57, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, April 24, 2025, in a tragic auto accident. Born on April 29, 1967, at St. John's Hospital in his beloved hometown to John V. and Dolores (Aaron) Vossmer, Pat was a familiar and friendly face to many in the community.
Pat's roots in Leavenworth ran deep. He received his early education in the local Catholic school system, attending St. Joseph and Xavier before graduating with the Immaculata High School Class of 1985. His athletic talents were evident early on, as he enthusiastically participated in a variety of sports throughout his school years, including baseball, basketball, football, and wrestling. He achieved significant success in football and wrestling, proudly representing his schools with multiple appearances at the state tournament. The foundation for his strong work ethic was laid during his teenage years spent working alongside his Uncle Mark Aaron on the family farm, a place that remained close to his heart throughout his life. In recent years, he could often be found back at the farm, tending to his large garden and tackling various projects with characteristic energy.
Pat's professional life took him to various parts of the country within the waste management industry. He began his career with Browning Ferris Industries (BFI) in Kansas City, Kansas, later moving to Sandusky, Ohio, to work alongside his brother Dave at BFI. His career continued to flourish with Republic Services in Asheville, North Carolina, followed by a role managing a landfill for Waste Connections in Avenal, California. He then served as General Manager at American Environmental Landfill in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and subsequently ran a landfill for Advanced Disposal in Detroit, Michigan. Despite his travels for work, Pat always maintained his strong ties to Leavenworth. His commitment to the communities where he lived was evident in the numerous honors and accolades he received for his dedicated volunteer work.
Known for his practical skills and ingenuity, Pat was a true "jack of all trades," capable of fixing and operating machinery and tackling any challenge that came his way. Beyond his professional and athletic pursuits, Pat's greatest joy was his family. He was a cherished uncle to his many nieces and nephews, creating special memories with each of them, whether it was through shopping trips with the girls or playful adventures with the boys. In his leisure time, Pat enjoyed connecting with nature through bird hunting, mushroom hunting, and fishing. He also had a passion for cooking, delighting in preparing a wide range of dishes, especially those with a fiery flavor.
Pat was preceded in death by his parents, John and Dolores Vossmer, and his niece, Grace Vossmer. He is survived by his loving sister and five brothers: Mark John (Melissa) Vossmer, Joseph (Leslie) Vossmer, David (Jewel) Vossmer, Michael (Laurie) Vossmer, Agnes Vossmer, and Greg (Jeanna) Vossmer.
Pat's warm spirit, his willingness to help others, and his love for his family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
The family suggests that memorial contributions in Pat's name may be directed to Sacred Heart Church of Kickapoo, the Leavenworth Animal Welfare Society (LAWS), or St. Joseph Parish, all organizations close to his heart and reflective of his values.
Visitation will be 5 to 7 PM, Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at Davis Funeral Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 AM, Thursday, May 1, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, followed by a graveside service at Sacred Heart Cemetery of Kickapoo which has kindly been requested to be limited to the family. Arrangements entrusted to Davis Funeral Chapel.
