Patrick Aaron Jaegers, 50, Defiance, passed away Oct. 26, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of intelligence, humor and wholehearted living that will be remembered forever.
He was born Aug. 18, 1975, to James and Patricia (née Boehm) Jaegers in Linn.
He cherished childhood memories of riding along with his dad on his feed haul and spending time in his grandfather Norman Jaegers’ general store in Frankenstein.
A proud Linn High School graduate, Patrick was the salutatorian of his class, senior class president and a Bright Flight recipient. Standing at 6’4”, he was not just an academic standout but also an incredible athlete — a 360-dunking, 4:30-mile-running force who went on to play basketball for Maryville University in St. Louis. There, he earned his degree in the challenging mathematical field of Actuarial Science and began his professional career with Tillinghast Towers Perrin and later joined Reinsurance Group of America (RGA), where he dedicated over 23 years of service in valuation and most recently in business architecture.
Patrick’s brilliance, however, extended far beyond numbers. He was a foremost expert in classic 1978-1979 Ford trucks and vintage Suzuki ATVs, amassing and curating — alongside his brother Chris and sons — a collection that included some of the rarest and most desirable Ford trucks of that era and the single largest collection of Suzuki Quadracers in existence.
To those who knew him best, Pat was a unique combination of intellect and humor, wisdom and wit. He could discuss deep ideas one moment and have everyone laughing the next. Pat was the best man in six weddings and eulogist at numerous life celebrations — a testament to his loyalty, character and the profound impact he had on those around him. Whether in a meeting, a garage, or a family gathering, he stood out — not because he tried to, but because he couldn’t help it.
Patrick and Lisa shared a love of travel and adventure. Their journeys took them as far as France and South Africa, where they combined work trips with exploration; to England, where they visited close friends; and to the ski slopes of Colorado, where they shared countless good times with their circle of friends. Perhaps Patrick’s favorite place in the world, however, was their family farm near Frankenstein—a lifelong dream fulfilled. There, he found peace and joy, whether driving his tractor, sitting in his hunting blind overlooking the Missouri River, or simply taking in the beauty of the land. Together, he and Lisa also lovingly restored historic buildings in Bonnots Mill, preserving the charm and history of a place they both treasured.
Pat loved bringing people together — hosting epic birthday parties for his wife, organizing family and high school reunions and leading unforgettable rides through the scenic backroads of Osage County. He delighted in showing off the breathtaking view from the farm, sharing stories and creating new memories with old friends. Patrick also cherished organizing riding trips for his sons to Glamis, Calif. and Little Sahara, Okla. not just to ride, but to share unforgettable experiences and see what their quadracers could do beyond the garage.
Of all the roles Patrick filled in life — son, husband, brother, friend, and professional — none brought him more joy than being a father and grandfather; and most recently, he adored spending time with his grandsons, Paxton and Parker.
Patrick was generous with his time and energy, giving back to causes close to his heart. He took great pride in coaching for the Francis Howell Jr. Vikings, where he could spend extra time with his sons before their high school years. He was especially dedicated to Pedal the Cause, bike riding annually on the RGA team in honor of Trevor Joerling.
He was preceded in death by mother, Patricia Jaegers; and grandparents, Norman and Laverne Jaegers of Frankenstein.
Patrick is survived by his devoted wife and high school sweetheart, Lisa (née Borgmeyer), originally of Westphalia, whom he began dating as a teenager and married during college. Lisa is Professor at Saint Louis University and resides at their home in Defiance, where they are members of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in New Melle; sons of whom he was immensely proud of, Dylan, a student at the University of Missouri–Columbia and Brandon who resides in O’Fallon with his wife, Alexis “Lexie” (née Moe) and their beloved sons, Paxton and Parker; father, James “Jim” W. Jaegers of Linn; brothers, Christopher “Chris” and wife Erica (née Riegel) Jaegers of Loose Creek and James Jaegers II of Fairfax, Va; nephews, Nolan, Luke and William; and niece, Vivian Jaegers.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday, Nov. 1, at Our Lady Help of Christians Church in Frankenstein, with Fr. Colin Franklin offficiating.
A Celebration of Patrick’s Life—fitting for a man who lived it so fully, including a formal program with continued visiting and fellowship followed at the Loose Creek Community Center.
Memorial contributions suggested to the Patrick Jaegers Memorial Fund at Legends Bank. Gifts will support a range of charities that represent the many causes Patrick cared deeply about and championed throughout his life.
Arrangements entrusted to Morton Chapel in Linn.
