More About Pastor Patrick Coakley
Senior Pastor, Hillside Church

Pastor Pat was born in Aurora, IL, the oldest of four children. Kind neighbors took him to the Free Methodist Church Sunday School and Vacation Bible School when he was just a second grader. He has been a part of the Free Methodist Church ever since those early beginnings.

He wandered from his early faith while in high school until a dramatic and miraculous conversion in April of 1972. He then dedicated his life to serving Jesus, including a memorable year traveling the country with a tent ministry witnessing his faith on the streets of Las Vegas.

In February 1973 he and his high school sweetheart, Cheri, were married and began their ministry and family together.They have 3 grown children and 7 grandchildren who live in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Texas.

Pastor Pat graduated summa cum laude with a Psychology/Religion degree from Greenville College in 1980 and was appointed to the Freeport, IL Free Methodist Church. He has since pastored in Rockford, IL, Richland Center, WI, Monee, IL, and was appointed to Hillside in December 2010.

Pastor Pat has been and continues to be a denominational and conference leader, serving in the areas of youth, Christian education, church camping, and administration. His leader roles have been General Conference Delegate, Nominating Committee Member, and a member of the Board of Administration. He is currently the Assistant Superintendent for the Chicago Metro District.

He most enjoys his grandchildren, motorcycling, computers (and Cheri says 'most gadgets'), camping, and travel.