Pat and Pete Frechette were raised in Janesville, Wisconsin and became high school sweethearts in 1956. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin, they married in 1961 and set off on a life journey of hard work, devotion to family, and tremendous generosity. Throughout the early years of their marriage and parenthood they had modest means, yet they started a tradition of giving back.

In their late fifties, Pete and his executive team took The Patterson Dental Company (currently Patterson Companies) public, and their assets increased substantially. Pat and Pete were humbled by their good fortune and grateful to be able to support efforts that contributed to the well-being of others on a whole new scale. Pat and Pete established the Frechette Family Foundation in March 1997. Together with their twin daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren, they spent many fulfilling and happy years supporting organizations in the areas of education and health.

Pat passed away in September 2016 and, less than five months later, Pete passed away in February 2017. The bulk of their estate went into the foundation. Pat and Pete’s lives were shaped by their passion for giving and how it benefits communities. They joyfully shared this passion with their children and grandchildren; it is an honor for their descendants to carry on their legacy.