Patrick Thomas Hughes

Patrick Thomas Hughes, age 75, passed away on Thursday September 22, 2022, from natural causes. Born in Spokane, WA on August 10, 1947, to Robert Gordon Hughes and Jean Eileen Brady. The family moved from Spokane to Bellingham by 1950 and Patrick lived there for most of his life and spent the remainder of time living in California. As soon as Patrick was of age, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, spending a total of 4 years. A year and a half of that time was spent over seas in Okinawa and Danang, Vietnam. He spent most of his time as a Grenadier, Mortar man and Brig Guard but in his words, he always said he was a ‘Highly trained nighttime jungle fighter’. Patrick had a larger-than-life personality.  He made so many friends throughout his life. He was always telling us about people he met here and there, whether it was a common interest in photography, music, or muscle cars. In his lifetime he owned about fourteen 1972 Chevy Monte Carlos, as those were his favorite.  But his most treasured friends were those he had met through support groups for Vietnam vets. Some friendships went back 30 years. He sincerely valued those friendships and having support in a way that no one else would understand. Patrick was a tall, robust man with a heart of gold. He was always willing to help family or friends in an instant, no hesitation or questions asked. He prided himself as being a nice guy who always gave people the benefit of the doubt. For years he worked in Telecommunications and small startup companies, taking business trips all over the US. But his least favorite was the 20-hour trip to Nepal as he hated flying. Patrick is preceded in death by his beloved sisters Sherry Stafford, Donna Snyder, and niece Lurene Gisee. He leaves behind his loving wife Rita of 46 years, daughters Blair (Shane) Clement and their daughter Kalil. Rickelle (Johnny) Dickerson, their children Ashley Moran, Johnny Jr, Holly, and great grandson Bennett Moran and son, Dennis Hughes. Sisters; Fran Schwab, Rocky Gleghorn, Yvonne Williams and brother Michael Stroud. Several nieces, nephews, and extended family that looked up to him dearly. His last words when leaving family or friends were always ‘glad you got a chance to see me’. Patrick will be deeply missed by all who loved him. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local Humane Society.