Finn was best known to many television viewers for his recurring role as Bill Norwood on the ABC sitcom The Middle, where he appeared from 2011 to 2018. The series starred Patricia Heaton and Neil Flynn as parents navigating the everyday challenges of raising a family, and Finn’s character added warmth and humor as a friendly neighbor and loyal friend. In addition to The Middle, his television résumé included appearances on popular shows such as Friends, Seinfeld, Murphy Brown, 3rd Rock from the Sun, Ed, and The George Wendt Show, showcasing his versatility and steady presence across decades of television.

Born and raised in Wilmette, Illinois, Finn graduated from Marquette University in 1987, where he formed a close friendship with comedian Chris Farley. The two were roommates, teammates on the university rugby team, and later collaborators in comedy. Finn went on to join The Second City National Touring Company, a formative experience that helped sharpen his improvisational skills and opened doors to television work. His comfort with character-driven humor made him a reliable choice for sitcom roles, where his performances often left lasting impressions despite limited screen time.

Alongside his television success, Finn also appeared in several feature films, including The Bachelor, Dude, Where’s My Car?, How High, and I Love You, Beth Cooper. His final on-screen role came in the 2021 romantic comedy Funny Thing About Love. He is survived by his wife, Donna, and their two children, Cassidy and Caitlin. Friends and colleagues remembered him as generous, kind, and deeply funny, with tributes shared by fellow comedians and actors who praised both his talent and character. While his career spanned many genres and formats, those who knew him best agree that Pat Finn’s greatest impact was the warmth and humor he brought into every room—a legacy that continues through his work and the people whose lives he touched.