Joel Patrick Cothron, affectionately known by many as Pat, passed away on Saturday, August 15, 2026, in Davenport, IA at the age of 69, with his wife and daughter by his side.

Born February 14, 1957, Pat was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing and caring for his family. He worked in construction as a heavy equipment operator and was a proud member of Local Union 150.

Pat had a gift for fixing things and could figure out how to repair just about anything. He loved golf and, more recently, cruising around downtown in his golf cart. He was always ready with a quick joke or witty comment. He was known for being strong-willed, outspoken, unbelievably smart, and stubborn. Those who knew him best knew his stubbornness was only unmatched by his generous heart and willingness to help anyone who needed him.

Above all, Pat was devoted to his family. He and the love of his life, Donna Cothron, met in 1983 and were married in 1989. Together they built a home in East Moline, IL and a family that meant everything to him. He loved nothing more than spending time with his grandchildren and, of course, his dogs.

Pat is survived by his wife, Donna Cothron; his daughter, Robyn (Aaron) Motsinger, and their children, Bella and Vyncent Motsinger; his son, Steve (Seidina) Masengarb, and their children, Sadie Durham and Satara Masengarb; his brothers, Mark (Linda) Cothron, Mike (Linda) Cothron, and Jeff Cothron; his father-in-law, Gerald O’Donnell; many nieces and nephews; and his three beloved dogs.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joette and Morrie Cothron; his mother-in-law, Dorothy O’Donnell; his brother-in-law, Dennis Weigand; and many beloved pets who, the family are certain, were very happy to see him again.

Pat leaves behind a family who will forever remember his humor, determination, generosity, and the unmistakable personality that made him who he was. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rest easy, Dad. We will carry you with us, ALWAYS. Love you to the moon and back.

Thank you to the doctors, nurses, and entire team at Genesis East who fought relentlessly to help him, put up with his endless humor, and cared for him with such compassion. Thank you for the grace, patience, and kindness you showed him and our family, especially in his final days.

And thank you to everyone who has reached out, checked on us, shared a story, offered a prayer, or simply reminded us how many lives Dad touched. Your love and support have meant more than we can put into words. While his life was cut far too short, and we know he still had so much more life to live, we are incredibly grateful for the years we were blessed to have him. Thank you for loving an amazing man and for helping us honor the incredible life he lived.

Memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Van Hoe Funeral Home, East Moline. Visitation will be one hour prior to service. Memorials may be made to the family.