Patrick Henry Nolan VI of New Bern, N.C., and also Whidbey Island, Reno, Boston, Los Angeles, Honolulu, Athenry and the world, said goodbye to us at his home on July 2, 2007 six days short of his 70th birthday.

If you knew him, celebrate his life with us. If you didn’t, we’re sorry for your loss.

For any and every one of us who ever met him on the path of life, however casually, Patrick is the most memorable person we have ever known. There are too few good men in the world. We can’t afford to lose one, and especially not this one.

Those of us he leaves behind, we know who we are: his partner for time and all eternity, Patsy; his amazing children, Teresa, Michele, Traci, Patrick (PHN VII) and the spirit of Michael; Scott, David and Cali; the grandchildren who breathed life into him, Alicia, Lillian, Crystal, Laura and Hannah; and his sister Shirley Nolan Amador; his in-laws and out-laws all over the country; and those of us who were privileged to have been Patrick’s friends, too numerous to name, so completely loved and cherished, but for too short a time.

No newspaper has enough space to list Patrick’s credentials and accomplishments. The honors, the Emmys, the celebrities and heads of state he worked with were nothing to Patrick except material for another good story. All that mattered to him was to hear himself called Dad and Papa every day by the children and grandchildren who meant more to him than anything else in the world.

Patrick’s stories will be the living memorial to him. In a few months’ time, we will gather for an old fashioned Irish wake, to raise a glass or three to “himself” and exchange some blarney. We hope you will be there. Meanwhile, get busy living fiercely as Patrick did. Remember him by having the full colonoscopy that might save your life. In his memory, share your stories with his beloved Patsy, 1901 Rhem Ave., New Bern, NC 28560, patricia@patricknolan.us..

The family wants to thank the many doctors and nurses (especially the nurses) for their wonderful care and comfort. We would also like to thank Rivers-Morgan for their gentleness.

Patrick always told us that life is a sexually transmitted terminal condition. He believed that death would be the end of him. But he was wrong. He will haunt us forever.

Instead of sending flowers, Patrick would ask that you contribute to anything but the Republican National Committee.

Arrangements provided by Rivers-Morgan Funeral Home, 701 West St., New Bern, N.C. 252-637-5141.