Patrick Ginter, 68, Owatonna
Patrick "Packy" Edward Ginter, of Owatonna, passed away peacefully at a hospital in Pasadena, Calif., following a brave battle with a brain tumor. He leaves behind a colorful, lasting creative legacy and a life beautifully lived in service of his craft.
Born on April 1, 1958, to Patricia Ginter and Robert Knauer (deceased), Patrick grew up with a vibrant curiosity and a profound empathy for the world around him.
He graduated from Owatonna High School in 1976 before pursuing his lifelong passion for the arts. He attended Mankato State University and later finished his bachelor’s degree of fine arts from Pasadena City College, building a solid foundation for a lifetime of creative expression.
Patrick defined his artwork as modern expressionism, professionally developing a distinct style marked by bold, bright brushstrokes and rich impasto textures. He was a master of capturing both the quiet beauty of scenic landscapes and the deep stories written on human faces through his beautiful portraits. During his prominent years in Minneapolis, Metro Magazine recognized his unique talent, featuring him in numerous articles. He achieved notable milestones in the local art community, hosting a memorable one-man show at St. Anthony Main, displaying his work at the Jean Stefan Gallery, and earning the distinction of having his artwork accepted into the Minnesota State Fair.
A true street artist at heart, Patrick lived out his love of art on a grand canvas, traveling across the United States and connecting deeply with countless musicians and fellow artists. His van was a legendary and well-recognized staple of his journey, proudly bearing the phrase on the side: "If only Van Gogh had a van." From that mobile studio, he painted plein air from coast to coast.
For Patrick, art was never just a pastime—he fiercely stressed that art was healing. He lived out this philosophy by using his immense talent to support the down and out. He used his paintings to fight breast cancer alongside the Jane Brattain Breast Cancer Center and raised vital funds for veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder through Guitars for Vets. A massive lover of music who was rarely far from his guitar, he frequently painted iconic rock ’n’ roll figures.
He lived his life exactly as he wished: fully immersed in his craft, sharing his art directly with people on the streets as well as prestigious art galleries, and reminding everyone he met to find the healing beauty in the everyday world.
Patrick is survived by his mother, Patricia Francis; his beloved cousins; and he will be deeply missed by his family, his lifelong friends, his colleagues, and the vast community of creatives he inspired across the nation.
A celebration of life featuring a special exhibition of Patrick's vibrant artwork will be held on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Owatonna Art Center, 435 Garden View Lane, Owatonna.