William Patrick (Pat) Reilly passed away on June 6, 2022. Pat was born 83 years earlier, entering the world on June 6, 1939. He was the oldest son of William and Elizabeth (O’Brien) Reilly and would become a loving brother to Michael and Betty in the next few years. Pat attended Saint Anthony’s parochial school for grades K-8 and Gonzaga Preparatory High School where he played football, graduating in 1957.
Upon graduating high school, Pat began courses at Eastern Washington University while also working in the produce department at Safeway. After a little over a year at EWU, Pat joined the USAF and was on active duty for 6 months. He continued in the reserve for another six years. When finished with his active duty, he completed training and became a proud part of the Washington State Patrol. Law enforcement was a natural decision as his father was serving as the Spokane County Sheriff. He worked for WSP until his retirement in 1993.
Pat met Darlene Schmidt through mutual friends. He quickly knew she was the one and they were married on September 16, 1961, at St. Anthony's Parish. It has been said that Pat was the happiest groom a person had ever seen.
The couple had a loving relationship that included a great sense of humor. Darlene was always quick with a comeback to Pat's jokes. They welcomed son Michael in 1969 and daughter Cindy the following year. They had close relationships with family and friends and had many memorable times on short trips or weekends at the lake. Pat had a way with people that put everyone at ease, he especially enjoyed making sure everyone was included and having a good time. On annual trips to Fairmont Hot Springs, Pat would join his children and all of the cousins in the annual tradition (as the only adult) participating in the Polar Bear Plunge. He was also the constant neighborhood dad who would find the time to play sports in the yard or driveway with everyone after a long day at work.
Pat was taught a strong work ethic early on. As he and Darlene raised their family, he was usually working two jobs in addition to being a faithful community volunteer. He worked the night shift at the House of Charity every weekend, and provided ushering services at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church where he was a lifelong member. Pat maintained a beautiful backyard garden and was always generous with his vegetable crops. He was known as a loyal friend to many throughout the years.
Together with Darlene, part of Pat’s greatest joy was time spent with their children and grandchildren, attending their activities whenever possible. Holidays and birthdays were special and were celebrated with much joy and laughter. They were avid Gonzaga Basketball fans and attended both men’s and women’s games.
Pat was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Betty, and his true love, wife Darlene. He will be dearly missed by his son Mike (Lorri) Reilly; daughter Cindy (Mike) Travis; grandchildren Megan and Patrick Reilly, Michael and Katie Travis. Also mourning the loss is his brother, Michael (Judy) Reilly and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Mass will be held on Thursday, June 23rd at 11:00 am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Spokane Valley. A reception to celebrate both Pat and Darlene will follow.
The family would like to thank the staff at Orchard Crest and Kindred Hospice for providing care and compassion during Pat’s last few months.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.HazenJaegerValley.com for the Reilly family.
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