Longtime Mulkeytown Resident Terry Frank Patyski Dies at 84

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Terry Frank Patyski, an 84-year-old resident of Mulkeytown, Illinois, passed away on February 28, 2026, at Herrin Hospital. Patyski was a U.S. Army veteran, worked at Orient No. 3 Mine and as a custodian at SIU School of Medicine, and owned and operated Walnut Hill Winery in Mulkeytown. He is survived by his wife, three children, six grandchildren, and one brother.

Why it matters

Patyski's passing marks the end of an era for the small town of Mulkeytown, where he was a well-known and beloved figure. His winery and decades of community service made him an integral part of the local landscape, and his death will be felt by many in the area.

The details

Patyski was born on January 4, 1942, in Valier, Illinois, and graduated from Valier High School in 1960. He served in the U.S. Army from 1964 to 1970, achieving the rank of SP-4. After his military service, Patyski worked at the Orient No. 3 Mine until its closure, and then spent 24 years as a custodian at the SIU School of Medicine before retiring. In addition to his work, Patyski was the proud owner and operator of Walnut Hill Winery in Mulkeytown, where he grew his own grapes and produced his own brand of wine.

• Patyski was born on January 4, 1942.
• He graduated from Valier High School in 1960.
• Patyski served in the U.S. Army from March 1964 to February 1970.
• He worked at the Orient No. 3 Mine until its closing, and then spent 24 years as a custodian at the SIU School of Medicine before retiring.
• Patyski passed away on February 28, 2026, at the age of 84.