Patrick Francis Tavenner's Obituary
Patrick F. Tavenner “Pat”, 68 of Lorain, Ohio was welcomed into God’s loving arms on 06/11/2018 surrounded by his wife and children at Mercy New Life Hospice after waging a courageous battle against a lengthy illness. Pat was a lifelong resident of Lorain. He graduated from Lorain High School, class of 1968 and was a standout athlete lettering in baseball, basketball, and football. He declined a football scholarship to valiantly and selflessly enlist in the Marine Corps. He bravely volunteered for two tours of Vietnam and was awarded the Department of Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Distinguished Service Medal, and the Combat Action Medal. Upon return from service, he began employment with the steel mill and worked there for 38 years as a heavy equipment operator in the Bop Shop.
Pat was a hardworking, humble man. Pat claimed that his greatest accomplishment was his family. He was an amazingly devoted father and would fondly share stories of his son’s athletic achievements and his daughter’s intelligence and sensitive spirit. His favorite pastime was spent on the shores of Lake Erie. Pat loved McDonald’s coffee with four sugars, was a history buff, and cheered on all Cleveland sports teams, regardless of their record. His sense of humor and witticism were contagious. He enjoyed a good political debate. He was a voracious reader and lover of all God’s plants, flowers, and creatures; like his namesake St. Francis. He was active in political campaigns, coached Lorain Youth Baseball, CYO Basketball, and donated countless hours of his time and talents to Lorain City Special Olympics.
Pat leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife, best-friend, and dedicated care taker, Kathy Tavenner married for 41 years, daughter Krystal (Ryan), son Patrick II (Meredith) and three Labrador retriever grand-dogs. Siblings; Dr. Kathleen Miller, Robert Tavenner, Dr. Hilaire (Sally) Tavenner, Michele Skinn, Christopher Tavenner, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Catherine Tavenner and his beloved brother, Garth Tavenner.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral and Cremation Center, Amherst, Ohio. A traditional Irish wake will be held at a later date to celebrate Patrick’s memory. Memorial contributions in Patrick’s honor can be made to: Mercy New Life Hospice 3500 Kolbe Rd. Lorain, Ohio 44053. To send an online condolence, go to www.dovinreberjones.com.
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