Patrick Kolb, 42, of Lafayette, Indiana, passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2025, as the result of a tragic motorcycle collision on State Road 25 near West Lafayette. Known for his warm smile, generous spirit and boundless enthusiasm for life, Patrick was a beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend. His sudden departure has left a hole in the hearts of all who knew him and will be deeply mourned throughout the Tippecanoe County community.
Born on October 22, 1982, in Kokomo, Indiana, Patrick was the eldest son of Thomas and Marilyn Kolb. He graduated from Kokomo High School in 2001, where he excelled academically and captained the wrestling team. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Purdue University in 2005, fulfilling a lifelong dream of contributing to the infrastructure and growth of his home state.
Shortly after graduation, Patrick joined Miller & Sons Engineering, quickly distinguishing himself as a dedicated and innovative engineer. Over a nineteen-year career, he worked on numerous bridge and roadway projects throughout Indiana, earning the respect of clients, colleagues and municipal leaders alike. His attention to detail and commitment to safety made him a natural mentor to younger engineers, and he often volunteered his free time to coach high school robotics teams and speak at career days, encouraging students—particularly young women—to pursue STEM fields.
Outside of work, Patrick’s greatest pride was his family. He and his wife, Jennifer (née Albright), whom he married on June 14, 2008, shared a partnership built on mutual respect, laughter and adventure. Together they raised two children—Emma, 10, and Luke, 7—instilling in them the same love of the outdoors and curiosity that defined Patrick’s life. Summers found the Kolbs camping along the Tippecanoe River, teaching their children to fish, kayak and navigate by the stars. Winters often meant neighborhood snowball fights and family game nights, during which Patrick’s dry wit and competitive streak were on full display.
An avid motorcyclist, Patrick believed the open road offered perspective and clarity. He was an active member of the Michiana Riders Association, leading weekend charity rides to support veterans and children’s hospitals. On May 10, he was returning from a fundraiser in South Bend when his motorcycle collided with a pickup truck at an intersection. Emergency responders arrived swiftly but were unable to save him. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Patrick is preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert and Lillian Kolb. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer; his children, Emma and Luke; his parents, Thomas and Marilyn; his sister, Sarah (Kolb) Nguyen and her husband, Minh; and countless cousins, aunts, uncles and dear friends. His compassionate heart, steadfast loyalty and infectious laughter touched everyone he met and left a lasting legacy of kindness and service.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 15, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Healey & Ger-des Funeral Home, 2000 N. 50 W., Lafayette. A celebration of life service will follow at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 16, at Second Presbyterian Church, 212 N. Sixth St., Lafayette, with Reverend Laura Hastings officiating. Family and friends are invited to wear bright colors in honor of Patrick’s vibrant spirit. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Michiana Riders Scholarship Fund, established by Patrick to support local students pursuing engineering degrees.
Though Patrick’s journey was cut far too short, his contributions to his profession, his community and his family endure. His legacy lives on in the bridges he helped design, the young minds he inspired, and the love he poured into every moment with those closest to him. He will be remembered always as a devoted husband, proud father and friend whose passion for life made every day richer for those around him.
