Volunteer Spotlight: Pat AKA The Man with the Beard & Pipe

Updated April 23rd, 2025. Pat was an integral part of Arrowhead Park, and Park Ranger Dave Fischer, Park Aide Todd Sliger, and park staff are forever grateful for all that he contributed not only to the park and campgrounds, but also to the lives of staff and visitors as a cherished volunteer. Our hearts go out to Pat's family as they mourn his loss.

Below, take a moment to meet long-time Arrowhead Park volunteer, Pat.

How Long Pat Volunteered With Us:

It all started more than 30 years ago when Pat first started camping at Pottawattamie Conservation’s Arrowhead Park in Neola, IA. Pretty soon he was helping with anything he could, including the park’s annual fishing derby in June, Chili Fest in October, the Ted Nugent Kamp for Kids, cleaning up the park after storms and banding Canada geese.

For the past 14 years, Pat also served as one of the park’s camp hosts where he assisted park staff, answered questions from visitors, and checked on campers.

Why Pat Volunteered:

“I really enjoy camping and it’s really the best job I’ve had. I get to camp and help people as well as tell them where and what to do. LOL”

What Pat Learned While Volunteering:

Each summer the Iowa DNR visits areas across the state, including Arrowhead Park, to band Canada geese. Banding information is then collected by the USGS Bird Banding lab and used to track bird migration trends and survival. Pat graciously volunteered to assist with these operations at the park, which he said was a very interesting experience - and not as easy as he thought it would be. 

Something Interesting About Pat:

There are two things you’d never see Pat without - his beard, or his pipe. Because of this, the saying around the park by campers and visitors alike is that if you need anything, just see the man with the beard and the pipe and he’ll take care of you. After 35 years of frequenting and volunteering at Arrowhead Park, you can best believe that Pat had your back if you were in need.

Passionate, dedicated volunteers like Pat are what make our parks such special places to visit, and for that the Pottawattamie Conservation team is forever grateful! It takes all of us, including the impressive contributions from community members like Pat, to protect our natural areas for generations to come.

Thank you for everything, Pat (aka the man with the beard and pipe), and may you rest in peace.