Robert Patrick "Pat" Durkin's Obituary
Robert Patrick “Pat” Durkin, 82, North Syracuse, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 26, 2019. He was a parishioner of St. Margaret’s Church, Mattydale. Known to many as Pat, Big Buck, Paddy, Popster, Mr. Durkin, Grandpa and Dad. He had a plethora of knowledge that he loved to share with his grandchildren. His witty, jovial and loving presence impacted everyone around him. You were guaranteed a story, a joke or a trivia question. Either way, his sense of humor never failed to bring a smile to those around him.
Pat was born in Detroit, MI and grew up in Carbondale, PA. After graduating from St. Rose High School, he proudly served in the U.S. Air Force from 1956-1960. While serving, he played on the Lakeland Air Force Base baseball team as a second baseman. He was scouted by the Pittsburgh Pirates, but was too old to make the cut. He had an overwhelming passion for baseball where he knew just about every player on every team during any year. But his two favorite teams were the Detroit Tigers and the NY Yankees. But there is no forgetting his most favorite team, the Syracuse Orange basketball team. If SU was playing, you best not call to chat, unless it was to root on the team with him. He loved his sports; and cooking too. He loved to talk about new recipes and try new food. Many great meals were shared around his kitchen table.
Working in the auto parts sales industry for almost 60 years, and co-owning Durkin, Sullivan & Ford for half of those years, allowed him to meet many great people along the way; some will be cherished forever.
Patrick is survived by his five children and 11 grandchildren; all of whom he had a tremendous adoration for; Colleen Doran, Maureen (Rick) Curtis, Carol Parker, David Durkin and John Durkin. His adoring grandchildren; Bryan and Mason Doran, Coryn (Justin) Graser and Ricky Curtis, Kyle, William, Owen and Blake Marie Parker, Chloe, Joseph and Lily Durkin. Brothers, Walter, Steven, Jerry and Carl Durkin. His first wife, Margaret Butters, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, family and friends too numerous to list but not forgotten.
Pat is reunited in Heaven with his beloved parents, AnnaMae and Robert, and siblings, Joseph, Jackie, Jim, and Anne Marie.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, May 31, 2019 from 10 am — 12 pm at THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd, N. Syracuse, NY, followed by a Funeral Mass in celebration of Patrick’s life at 1 pm at St. Margaret’s Church, Mattydale, NY.
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