Patrick William McTaggart, 70, of Elkader, died Sunday, January 19, 2020, at his home. He was born in Mason City
on June 6, 1949, to William Neal and Mary Virginia (Looney) McTaggart. As a young man, he worked for his dad, Bill and his uncle, Don, who were co-owners of McTaggart’s Furniture. He graduated from Central Community High School and attended Upper Iowa University in Fayette where he earned a degree in History. He proudly served in the United States Army and was Honorably Discharged on September 26, 1977.
Pat was an accomplished author and journalist. He had a keen interest in WWII and wrote several articles for specialty military publications. In 2005, his book “Siege! Six Epic Eastern Front Assaults of World War II” was published. He also worked for the Clayton County Register and other local newspapers for several decades writing numerous articles on the Clayton County Courthouse, the clock tower renovation project, Carter House, and local sporting events.
Pat was proud to be a lifelong resident of Elkader and was active with the Clayton County Veterans Affairs Commission and the Emergency Management Commission. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, and enjoyed volunteering his time and donating to causes he believed in. He was known around town for his daily routine which included stops at Pronto, the post office, local business offices, and Gene’s Place. He also looked forward to his yearly trips to Las Vegas to see his son, Sean.
In 1995, Pat married the love of his life, Diane. After her passing, he often commented on their special star that he could see from his back deck. He was also passionate about rock and roll and classical music and often quizzed people on what year songs were recorded. Following a concert, he once told his daughter Erin, “Now that you are an expert on rock and roll, we can work on the finer things, but never forget that life ROCKS!”
Survivors include children, Sean (Melissa) McTaggart, Henderson, NV, Erin (Matt) Scott-Burnham, North Liberty, and Ryan (Tonia) Robinson, Elkader; four grandchildren, Mya Vu, Jadeena Vu, Cameron Scott-Burnham, and Breanna Elvers; sisters, Colleen (Bryce) Marolf, Cedar Rapids, Dianne (Dennis) Wall, Winter Springs, FL, Maureen (Tom) Reinhart, Parkersburg, nieces, nephews, and many friends.
Pat was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Kevin; and wife, Diane.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Elkader Fire Department.
Visitation: 3:00 PM until 6:00 PM, Friday, February 21, 2020, with a Scripture Service at 6:00 PM And after 9:00 AM on Saturday February 22, ALL at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Elkader
Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 AM Saturday February 22, 2020, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Elkader.
Inurnment: St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Elkader
Leonard-Grau Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Elkader is assisting the family.