Hugh Patrick (“Pat”) Donnelly, 86, of Newark, DE, passed away at his home August 13, 2015.

Pat was born in Belfast, County Antrim, Northern (Occupied) Ireland to Teresa Fitzpatrick Donnelly and Michael Donnelly, Sr. who are predeceased. He was the younger brother of the Reverend Michael Donnelly, also predeceased.

Pat immigrated to the United States in the mid-1950s, originally residing in Flatbush (Brooklyn), NY, NY. Shortly after his arrival to this country, Pat visited the Armed Forces Recruiting Station in Times Square, NYC where he eagerly enlisted in the United States Air Force (USAF). He proudly and honorably served our country for five years, as part of Strategic Air Command (SAC). During his time in the USAF, Pat traveled the world spending time in many countries; England, Greenland, Morocco, the Republic of the Congo and Mexico to name a few. Many an hour was spent with his family and friends recounting his countless adventures while in the USAF.

In 1961, he married Elizabeth (“Betty”) Wright who survives him. Pat and Betty had known each other since their childhoods, courting as young adults. Together, they raised two daughters; Patricia (“Pat”, “Patty”) of Toledo, OH and Elizabeth (“Eilish”, “Liz”) of Brooklyn, NY, NY who survive him. Pat’s family was the center of his life. Every decision he made was influenced by the love he had for his wife and daughters. To say that he was passionate about fatherhood is an understatement. Even those who were observably blasé about children would find themselves unwittingly subjected to his abounding enthusiasm for his daughters, both of whom he was especially proud.

For 26 years, Pat was employed in the Electric Shop at the University of Delaware, an institution with which he was much honored to have worked. Indeed, he made numerous and cherished friends there; anyone from the cleaning staff to the President either knew him or knew of him.

Pat loved life and, as far as he was concerned, 86 years was just too short. He always looked for the good in people, had a remarkable sense of humor and wit, was a spellbinding storyteller and never knew a stranger. He is profoundly missed by his family and community of friends. Pat was one of those people that you thought would never leave us.

He was known to have an immense amount of compassion for those who were down-trodden. Indeed, as his early life in Belfast was challenging, he could relate to their sufferings.

Pat is also survived by his son-in-law, Andrew (Patricia) Campbell of Toledo, OH, his devoted granddog, Oscar, and his cheerful parakeet, Lemonhead.

All are welcome to join us in the celebration of Pat’s life at 2 p.m. this Wednesday, August 19th at Holy Family Church in Newark, DE, where a memorial Mass will be celebrated. In lieu of flowers, his family ask that contributions in his memory be made to your choice of homeless shelters or services for the needy. Otherwise, make each day matter and bring a smile to at least one person today. He’d appreciate that.

Pat’s family is beyond grateful for the help of Katrina Ledbetter, Kathleen Ingram, RN and Heartland Hospice for the compassionate care provided to him near the end of his days.

Condolences may be sent to www.rtfoard.com.

I gcónaí inár gcroíthe. (Irish: Forever in our hearts)