Patrick M Mehtonen

Patrick M Mehtonen peacefully passed away October 28, 2025 in Ukiah. He was born on November 25, 1955.

Pat is survived by friends and hunting buddies who have been enriched by his life and love for his ranch.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Marsha; mother, Wanda Burke Mehtonen and father, Marcus Mehtonen.

Pat grew up as a traditional Mendocino County rancher. Raising sheep, hunting, riding horses, and living off the land as much as possible. Over the years, as it became harder to make a living on sheep alone, he was able to turn his passion for hunting into a livelihood. Never one to need luxury, he lived his entire life on his ranch where he considered it the greatest place on Earth, constantly working to keep everything running as only a rancher could.

He was tough as nails, never complained, and could fix anything with bailing wire and whatever he could find laying around. He didn’t just love his ranch – it was his life and his legacy, having begun as a homestead by his maternal grandfather William P. Burke in the late 1800s. According to family lore, the Burke’s were the first people to find a way to bring a covered wagon into Ukiah Valley. That toughness and determination was a trait Pat certainly inherited.

His greatest joy was spending time at his cabin, eating, drinking, hunting, laughing, and sharing memories and experiences with anyone who would join him. Although he never had children of his own, being a father figure came naturally to him. He was a role model to many, and everyone who spent time with him learned how to enjoy a simplified life. His sense of humor and spontaneity was always on full display and a joy to be around. The Mehtonen Ranch will live on and be a place to carry on the tradition of his family – his biggest ambition.

Pat’s one-of-a-kind personality, humor, jokes, and love for his ranch and hunting will forever be missed and never forgotten. So many cherished memories to reflect upon.

A celebration of life will be hosted by the Crudo family at Mike & Teresa Crudo’s home on Sunday, November 16th at one o’clock. Bring your stories and photos to share. Please contact 707.489.0127 or mranch55@gmail.com for directions.