Pat McCarthy
Charles Patrick “Pat” McCarthy, 57, of Ludington, passed away on July 2, 2026.
Born on May 20, 1969, in Ardmore, Penn., Pat was the son of Charles “Pete” and Bridget McCarthy. Growing up in a military family, he experienced life in many places throughout the United States and overseas, fostering an adventurous spirit and an appreciation for different people and communities. He graduated from Sparta High School in Sparta, Wis., with the class of 1987, and briefly attended the University of Wisconsin–Madison before following in his father’s footsteps and proudly serving his country in the United States Army.
Pat honorably served nearly four years on active duty as a military police officer during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. During his service, he was awarded the Army Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Southwest Asia Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, the Kuwait Liberation Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and the Overseas Service Ribbon. He also earned the Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Rifle Grenade Bar, Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Rifle Bar (M-16), Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Hand Grenade Bar, and the Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Pistol Bar (9mm). His military service was a source of great pride, and the friendships he formed during those years lasted throughout his life. His fellow soldiers became more than friends; they became brothers who remained close for more than 35 years.
Following his military service, Pat was employed by Lake Michigan Carferry for more than 23 years, advancing to the position of vice president. During his time with the SS Badger, he built countless friendships, including the close-knit group affectionately known as the “Inner Circle,” whose friendship remained an important part of his life.
Pat spent the last five years of his career assisting individuals and families with their insurance needs. He first worked with the State Farm Erin Doan Agency before joining Lenz-Balder Insurance, where he continued serving the community he loved. He took pride in helping people protect what mattered most and appreciated working for organizations that shared his commitment to putting people first.
Above all else, Pat loved God and his family. He found his greatest happiness spending time with those closest to him. The Fourth of July was his favorite holiday, as it allowed him to celebrate the country he proudly served while surrounded by his family and friends.
Pat was an avid Washington Commanders and Green Bay Packers fan and especially enjoyed participating in fantasy football leagues, not only because of his love for the game but because they kept him connected with lifelong friends. He loved vacationing with his family, grilling, spending summer days by the pool, golfing, and participating in Saturday family Zoom calls. Whether talking about football, sharing stories, or simply enjoying each other’s company, Pat cherished the relationships he built throughout his life.
Pat is survived by his wife, Jennifer Howe McCarthy; his children, Ashley (Dan) Baroja, Caitlin McCarthy, Zach (Brandi) McCarthy, Wyatt McCarthy (fiancée Deanna Codman), and Mackenzie Howe.
He is also survived by his father and stepmother, Charles “Pete” and Sharon McCarthy; his siblings, Mary McCarthy, Cecilia (Randy) Johnson, Michael (Angie) McCarthy, and David (Dana) McCarthy; his father-in-law, Ken Van Sickle; his brother- and sister-in-law, Kenny and Kristy Van Sickle; his cherished grandchildren, Alex and Maddie Baroja and Oakleigh McCarthy; along with his beloved nieces, nephews, great-nephew, cousins, and second cousins, all of whom held a special place in his heart. Pat is also remembered by his lifelong friends, coworkers, neighbors, and the many people whose lives were made better simply by knowing him. He was preceded in death by his mother, Bridget McCarthy, and his mother-in-law, Cathy Van Sickle.
Pat will be remembered for his quiet strength, his willingness to help others, his loyalty, his sense of humor, and his love for his family and friends. Although Pat privately struggled with PTSD, he never stopped caring for others. He was often the one family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers called when they needed advice, encouragement, or someone willing to help. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering willingness to be there for others will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.
A memorial service with military honors will be held on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, at noon, at Grace Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Pat’s memory to https://.donorbox.org/.donaations-that-do-more (DoNAAtions That Do More: National Autism Association that provides safety boxes to prevent wandering and drowning), https://.www.theheroesoperation.org/.give (GIVE-The Heroes Operation: supporting veterans), The Will Strong Foundation, or the Lakeshore Food Club, causes that were meaningful to Pat and his family.
Arrangements by Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services, www.GraceCremations.com.
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