Patrick Emery Bigger, 72 of Valparaiso, passed away Friday, March 24, 2023 after a (7) year battle with prostate cancer. He was born January 28, 1951 in Manistique, MI to the late Emery and Faye (Minor) Bigger. On a track & field scholarship, Pat attended Lake Superior State University (go Lakers!!) and graduated with a mechanical engineer degree. Pat began his professional career as a tool & die maker, then transitioned into the permanent magnet industry, where he operated his self-started business, Bigger Consulting, Inc. for 30 years. An avid fisherman, Pat enjoyed boating, snowmobiling, corvettes, and tinkering in his workshop. Given Pat’s infectious, fun energy, he enjoyed attending his son's & grandchildren’s sporting events and was always the most boisterous fan. Pat had a gift for fixing/repairing ANYTHING and, with his unparalleled generosity, was always willing to lend a hand and/or volunteer his time to anyone in need.
On November 3, 1973, Pat married Penny Kay Haughton-Hendrix who survives along with their son, Carey Hendrix; grandchildren, Tayler and Nathan Hendrix; and siblings, Michael and Francis; and several nieces & nephews.
In keeping with Patricks’ wishes, there will be a private service with a life-celebration taking place, later this summer. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to an animal rescue organization of choice.
GUESTBOOK
Our sympathy in the loss of Pat. He was a wonderful friend to our son Erich. -Tammy Goranson
There are not very many people that I get to know and think highly of but Pat was one of those people. Pat was a generous person and a dear friend. I really cherished the trips we took and especially the one to SD. Pat was always a joy to be around. There was never a dull moment with Pat. I am sadden of the passing of Pat. I will surely miss my buddy. In my heart he will remain. I love you guys. -Ryan Groceman
In memory of my Uncle Pat. A Loving, Respectful, and very Generous Man. So willing to share his intellect while being supportive and encouraging. The strongest man of character and integrity. I am so Thankful to have known you. Lovingly, -Re'ne Haughton Horvath
Our dear friend Pat Bigger will be dearly missed. So grateful for the many years of fun times and true friendship. He was so ornery but knew how to make you love him and laugh with him. Rest in Peace dear friend. You were amazing how you fought the fight but you can rest now and be pain free. Will always remember you with love, -Denny and Doris Healy
I have sweet memories of Pat and Penny as they would host different bible studies at their home. Pat always had a smile whenever he greeted me, and the smell of cookies baking always seemed to be in the air. My condolences to his wife, son, grands. Prayers for peace, strength, as you all now go on without him. -Genette Kurtz
My condolences to Penny and the Bigger family on the loss of Pat! He was a nice guy and he will be missed! -Adam Wisdom
Penny, Carey, Taylor and Nate: We loved Pat so much! I loved to tease him and he always gave it right back to me. You know that you both are very dear to us, especially when in 1996 we started the Bible Study together and all the upheaval in our lives at that time. Please make sure we let us know when the Celebration of Life Services are for him. Pat will be missed and our prayers are with you all. -Vicki Valpatic
Dear Penny, Carey and Family -I was very sad to hear that Pat passed away. I have many childhood memories of hanging out at your place with the three of you. Such fun, innocent times.
I remember when you first moved in and we (me, Patty and Tom) were so excited that a new kid our age was moving into the neighborhood! I believe we were lurking about as you were moving in. 🙂
As mentioned in Pat's lovely obituary, I remember him (and Penny) being around at the games and school, always a familiar and comforting. Though I have not seen your family in some time, I will never forget those times or any of you. May you find some sort of peace during this difficult time. With love, -Val (Pierotti) McNamara, Greg McNamara, Celeste + Grace McNamara
