A certain sparkle on this good earth dimmed July 26, 2022, when Patrick J. Farmer of Monmouth Beach passed on while under hospice at Riverview Medical Center. He was born April 22, 1944, in the living room of his newly immigrated parents’ Newark home. Pat’s 78 years brought to many his unselfish gifts of laughter, kindness, enthusiasm, song, dance and knowledge.
Pat, a graduate of Walsh College in Canton, Ohio, personally brightened thousands of lives within his 44-year tenure as a teacher of Spanish at Red Bank Catholic High School. Not only did he instruct the language, but conveyed his first-hand knowledge of the many facets of Spain and Mexico to his students. He studied the history and cultures, in addition to extensive travels in the countries. His grateful former students are now living around the world.
Pat had a curious side to him which prompted his life-long learning of the English language, and the many gifts of nature found in flowers, the sea and birds, about which he had an extensive knowledge of species.
A lover of sports, Pat coached high school football, baseball, basketball and golf. Downtime would often find him golfing, fishing or tending the brightly colored flower beds he designed around the lovely home he shared with Jane, his beloved wife of 51 years.
Pat and Jane were proud parents to Peter, a Monmouth Beach Police Officer and Katie, in the Radiology Department at Riverview Medical Center. Pat was an engaging grandfather to son Peter and his wife Ashley’s three beautiful daughters, Alexis, Jillian and Alyssa.
Patrick was predeceased by his mother Catherine and father Peter; brothers Peter John and Thomas; and sisters Maureen and Eleanor.
His numerous loving nieces and nephews held a revered place in Pat’s heart.
An early example of his positive, encouraging outlook was on clear display to the world when, as a senior at Red Bank Catholic High School, during a Youth Day celebration, he publicly sang a contender for the New Jersey state song, written by Dixie Wilson of Fair Haven. Now, hundreds are sending their well wishes and remembrances in cards, letters and Facebook.
The core of Pat Farmer’s life was invested in enriching the lives of others whether they be family, numerous friends, students, their parents, or strangers who were lifted by his spirit.
Visitation was held Aug. 2 at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Aug. 3 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Long Branch. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Patrick’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Covenant House, New York City.
The article originally appeared in the August 4 – 10, 2022 print edition of The Two River Times.
