Patrick was a man of honor, bravery, courage, and led his life with Christ. He died February 18, 2020, a month short of his 26th birthday.

Patrick’s love of being a fireman came to life when Captain Fricke brought the fire engine to Grace Lutheran School. He got onto the fire truck, and from that moment on nothing would stop his dreams of becoming a fireman.

Patrick later attended Porterville Community College, at which he completed the Fire Academy and worked closer to his dreams of becoming a full-time firefighter. When it came to firefighting, he was relentless. He attended numerous trainings and received several certifications. He wanted to be the best he possibly could be to support his brothers.

In addition to being a dedicated firefighter, Patrick was a loving son, a protective little brother, a doting fiancé, and a loyal friend. He was a lover of all things sports and animals. If you let him, he would talk your ear off trying to defend his Chargers and Padres and tell you all about his baby pit bull, Lilo. Patrick’s love of sports and competitive drive were instilled at a young age. He was an amazing athlete.

Some of Patrick’s favorite memories were spent at Bass Lake with his family. He loved to be out on the water, showing off on his wakeboard and going on morning skis with his family. As he got older, his love for the water turned into a love for the fire service. Patrick loved being with the Porterville Fire Department and the camaraderie that came with being a part of such an amazing second family. He loved every single one of the people he worked with and would have done absolutely anything for them. Patrick’s motto was “I got you.” Patrick’s love for his family was unmatched. He loved family dinners and his mom’s apple crisp even more. He had a deep admiration for his older siblings, even though he liked to tease them, saying he was the favorite and best looking.

As Patrick got older, he found a different kind of love with his fiancée. The love between the two of them could be seen by everyone. He loved Molly unconditionally, and he made sure everyone knew it. Patrick’s vibrant personality and infectious smile ensured that no one was ever a stranger. He loved people, and people loved him. Patrick’s impact on those around him and his community are a testament to the kind of person he was.

We will deeply treasure the time we shared with him, knowing that his spirit continues to reside with all of us.