Patrick Edward McMillen

Patrick E. McMillen, 65, of Aurora, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly on Monday November 10th, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, quiet strength, and a life well lived. His family is deeply grateful for the care and compassion shown to him by the first responders and medical staff that cared for him in his final moments.

Patrick was born in Richmond, Indiana, and his life took a beautiful and defining turn when he was adopted as a teenager by Ruth and Jerry McMillen. From that moment on, he became a deeply loved part of the McMillen family, bringing quiet gentleness, thoughtful presence, and a warm spirit that enriched their lives in countless ways.

Patrick lived with a humble determination and a tender kindness that touched everyone he met. He proudly served in the United States Air Force, carrying with him a lifelong sense of duty, gratitude, and respect for others.

A gifted student with a sharp and curious mind, Patrick won the state accounting competition title, a testament to both his intelligence and his perseverance. One of his favorite memories from high school was a hayride where he accidentally lost his class ring. Twenty years later, a farmer found the ring and returned it after seeing Patrick’s name engraved inside—a small, almost miraculous moment that Patrick cherished, a reminder that life, in its quiet ways, often returns what was lost.

Patrick’s love of learning, strategy, and challenge led him to become an avid chess player, competing in international tournaments in Chicago. He filled his home with chess books, magazines, and computer programs, always eager to study a new line or improve his game. He also embraced physical endurance, completing several Chicago marathons, each one a reflection of his steady commitment and inner strength.

For more than 15 years, Patrick made his home in Aurora, Illinois, where he found a caring and protective circle of neighbors who truly loved him. They watched out for him, took him grocery shopping, gave him rides when he needed them, checked in on him, and made sure he returned home safely from his trips. Their kindness matched the kindness Patrick quietly gave back. He was also a devoted member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, where he attended faithfully and volunteered with sincerity and humility.

Patrick had a special love for Christmas—the lights, the music, the warmth of the season. He embraced its generosity and wonder with a childlike joy that made the holiday feel brighter for those who shared it with him.

Patrick is survived by his brothers Greg (Sue) McMillen, James Moody and Jeffery Webber, and by his nephews Michael, Mitchell, and Marshall. He is preceded in death by his loving parents, Ruth and Jerry McMillen.

Patrick will be remembered for his compassionate heart, his brilliant mind, his gentle faith, and the quiet strength that shaped his life. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness—felt by his family, his church, his neighbors, and all who were blessed to know him. His family finds comfort in knowing he is now at peace, reunited with Ruth and Jerry, held in the eternal love of God.

In lieu of flowers please donate items to Traders Point Christian Church Foster Children Program. Below is a link to items they are in desperate need of: Amazon.com

Arrangements entrusted to Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary.