Pat was born into a farming family in Walla Walla in 1949. After graduating with a degree in Agriculture Economics from Washington State University (Go Cougs!) he was instrumental in developing a pivot irrigated row crop farm on the Columbia River, near the little town of Paterson, South of Prosser. This property was incorporated as Sandpiper Farms with Pat as president, a role he has continued since its inception.  The 2025 crop will be the 51st harvest at this farm, which is now leased to others who grow potatoes, onions, peas, field corn, sweet corn, mint, bluegrass seed, and cucumbers.  

In 1996 Pat had a life changing experience as he was abducted from his home and held for ransom by some farmworkers. This event would change the course of his life in several ways.  He has become a follower of Jesus and is determined to make the world a better place. 

In 2004 Pat planted a 6-acre plot of Cabernet Sauvignon as a test plot.  After determining he had no interest in expanding this acreage, he began to consider how he could use the proceeds of the grapes to do some good in the world.  As a result of his abduction and the planting of the vineyard, in 2014 Pat founded Water from Wine, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that benefits groups who help solve the world water crisis.  Pat spends his time now working with Water from Wine, as well as assisting family members manage Sandpiper and other properties.  Pat and his wife Teri, a retired special education teacher, have 4 children, 3 of whom work with him in some capacity, and 8 grandchildren. They enjoy time away at either a lake in Northern Idaho or at the ocean on the Oregon Coast.