Patricia Heaton is remembering her longtime The Middle co-star Pat Finn with a moving tribute following his death at age 60.
Finn, who played Bill Norwood on The Middle from 2011 until the show’s conclusion in 2018, died on Monday, Dec. 22, after battling cancer. A representative confirmed his death to TMZ, noting that he was surrounded by family.
On Christmas Day, Heaton shared a series of photos to Instagram featuring herself with Finn and fellow The Middle co-stars Neil Flynn, Jen Ray and Julie Brown. In the caption, she reflected on Finn’s life, faith and impact.
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“One of the finest and funniest human beings I know has left to be with Jesus. Pat Finn, whom most of you know as Bill Norwood on The Middle had been battling cancer the last few years. At the too-young age of 60, he leaves behind his sweetheart Donna and three children. He was adored by all who knew him, and he leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, and wonderful comedy. He graced our movie Unexpected with a scene-stealing turn as a crazy psychiatrist. Our hearts are broken, but as faithful Catholics, we know we will see each other again through God‘s mercy. Rest in peace, dear brother. #patfinn #restinpeace #love.”
TMZ first reported the news, stating that Finn died at his home in Los Angeles with his family by his side. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Donna, and their three children, Cassidy, Caitlin and Ryan.
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According to a statement from his representative obtained by the New York Post, Finn “battled bladder cancer in 2022 and went into remission, but the cancer returned and metastasized. He was a warrior in every sense of the word.”
In a statement shared with People, Finn’s family remembered him for his warmth, humor and love of sports, writing that in his final days he often showed joy when the Chicago Bears scored touchdowns.
Tributes poured in following the announcement of his death. Finn’s daughter Cassidy shared an emotional message on Instagram alongside photos from her childhood.
“Dad… you were and are a role model and an inspiration to everyone you met. I tried to think of a word to describe you, but no word could ever do it justice. You are Pat Finn.”
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She continued:
“The least shocking thing was hearing the nurses say they have never seen so many people show up at a hospital for someone. That was my dad. My life is forever changed because of him. He taught me to be funny, positive, humble, to listen, to always try my best, to love, and to surround myself with the best people. But most importantly—you taught me kindness.”
Cassidy concluded:
“I’ve never met a single person who had a bad thing to say about my dad. I feel like the luckiest person in the world that I got to call you my dad. Can’t wait to drink an Old Style with you again one day. I love you 10, Dad. Ok. :)”
Beyond The Middle, Finn appeared on several iconic sitcoms, including Friends, where he played Dr. Roger, and Seinfeld, portraying Joe Mayo. He also starred on The George Wendt Show and appeared on Murphy Brown during the mid-1990s.
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Finn attended Marquette University, where he played rugby with the late Chris Farley before the two moved to Chicago and became roommates while performing with the Second City comedy troupe.
As Heaton’s tribute made clear, Finn’s legacy lives on not only through his work but through the deep affection of those who knew and loved him.
This story was originally published by Parade on Dec 25, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.