Patrick Martin Sims, 68, of Big Rapids passed away peacefully, September 27th, 2022 after succumbing to the effects of Dementia at Mission Point Nursing home. He was born in Big Rapids on Oct. 26, 1953, the son of George and A. Irene (Mason) Sims. Patrick married Diane L. Rehkopf on March 29, 1975 and together they raised their daughter, Kelly. Patrick worked alongside his father, George as an excavator for several years before beginning his career as a truck driver. Patrick was a member of the Teamsters and drove semi-trucks cross-country making long hauls for many years. He also worked for Dean Foods of Evart as a truck driver. Patrick was a dog lover and often took his dogs on trips with him while trucking. Patrick had a passion and talent for vehicle restoration and auto body painting, he especially loved restoring classic Chevy cars and trucks. In his younger years he raced cars at the Martin Speedway. He enjoyed attending the St. Ignace Classic Car Show each summer. Pat also enjoyed camping, cook-outs and spending time with family and friends. Patrick loved his three grandchildren and never missed a chance to take them to the Mecosta County Fair and for root beer floats at A&W. Patrick always made a point to say hello to friends while out and about and enjoyed the company of others, he was one who "never met a stranger." Pats daughter Kelly could always count on a weekly phone call from her dad just to catch up and those cherished conversations have been greatly missed. With the help of Alcoholics Anonymous, Patrick lived a life of sobriety for over 40 years. During that time, he was honored to be able to support countless individuals upon their own journey to freedom from addiction. Patrick is survived by his only daughter, Kelly Ann (Chad) Garner of Jefferson, Georgia; three grandchildren, Isabelle, Gabriel, and Ellery; brother, Bob of Inverness, Florida; sister, Laurie LaRue of Superior, WI, ex-wife, Diane (Rehkopf) Getts of Big Rapids, ex-wife, Amy (Derks) Sims of Fremont; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Michael (Judy), Ron, Jim (Monica) and Russ; sisters, Sue (Joe), and Rose. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Animal Rescue Coalition of Big Rapids. Share a memory, photo, or leave a condolence for the family at daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com