Obituary of Patrick J. Garvey, Jr.

Patrick “Pat” Garvey was born March 4th, 1935 in Ridgewood Queens to Patrick Sr. and Margaret Garvey, previously of County Clare Ireland.  He was the oldest of four sons born to humble circumstance, survived by his brothers Martin and Michael and preceded in faith by his brother John. 

Pat Garvey attended Bishop Loughlin High School in Brooklyn, followed by Manhattan College, graduating from the business school in 1957, but not before meeting a certain Elizabeth Tierney of the Bronx at a Manhattan Tea Dance Social.  Of all his many future noteworthy accomplishments, marrying the future Liz Garvey was by all accounts, his wisest decision.  Married October 1st 1960, Pat and LIz went on to have three children, Brian (deceased 1968), Dennis and Sharon.  First and foremost Pat Garvey would always be a loving husband, father and family man.

Patrick Garvey went on to live a life of significant professional accomplishments across a spectrum of roles, beginning with service as an officer in the United States Marine Corps following college.  After several years on active duty, he rose to the rank of Colonel in the Marines Corps Reserves before being promoted to Brigadier General in the New York State Naval Militia.  Patrick Garvey embodied in his heart the phrase, “Once a Marine, Always a Marine!”  In civilian life he served in senior development roles at the Foreign Policy Association and The Rockefeller University in New York City. From 2003 - 2011 he was a partner and board Chairman of US Cavalry Stores Inc., a private company that sold clothing and equipment to the military, law enforcement and outdoor adventure communities. He then served in the New York State Department of Military Affairs as the Post Commander of Camp Smith in Peekskill for several years while also working legislative issues for the state of NY in Washington D.C.  It was during this time at Camp Smith that Pat and Liz fell in love with the community of Peekskill, leading to Patrick’s selection as City Manager for the years 1997 to 2000.  After leaving the city manager job, he stayed active and engaged in Peekskill affairs where ever he could, including being involved in the board of the Paramount Theater, St. Patricks Day parade committee, serving as the 2nd Grand Marshal of the parade, and currently serving as a board member of the Lincoln Depot Museum.

All these things being true, to capture the real Patrick Garvey was to know the “Smiling Irishman”, the great husband of Liz, loving father to Dennis and Sharon, father in law to Kelly, and uncle Pat to many a nephew and niece.  It was to know a generous and loving friend and a man who believed sincerely in public service that knew no party.  It was to know the man of strong Catholic faith who strived to live his life in the best light of that faith, to be “a man for others”.  Patrick struggled with Parkinson’s disease these last several years, and though it slowly wore down his body and mind, he departed this world with his soul as strong and bright as ever.  While we mourn our loss, we celebrate his wonderous life as he goes to take his place, where as the Marine’s Hymn says, when you look on heaven’s scenes “They will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines”.  Semper Fidelis.  Slainte!  Rest In Peace Pat Garvey.  May the Good Lord take you to his heart. 

 In Lieu of Flowers contributions can be made to Manhattan College in honor of Pat.

Contributions can be sent to the attention of: Tom Mauriello, Vice President for Advancement Manhattan College, 4513 Manhattan College Parkway, Riverdale, New York, 10470, or via the Manhattan College Website www.manhattan.edu/giving

 If you feel so inclined to make a donation, please indicate the gift is in memory of Patrick J. Garvey.

May the road

rise to meet you.

May the wind

be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm

upon your face

and rains fall soft

upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you

in the hollow of His hand.

                            Irish Blessing