Born on May 31, 1947 to Bernice Thomas and Patrick Fox, Patrick grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. He enlisted in the Marine Corps at the age of 17, on July 2, 1964. There he met his wife Iris, who was also in the Marine Corps. They both were stationed at Twentynine Palms in 1968. Patrick served in the Marine Corps honorably for 25 years, retiring in 1989 as a Sergeant Major.
Patrick also worked for the San Diego Sheriff’s Department as a Reserves-Man while in the Marine Corps. He graduated from the academy in 1985, served 19 years, and retired as a Sergeant in 2004. On April 20, 1994, he received the Medal of Valor, the state’s highest valor award for a public safety officer.
Patrick also worked many years for the Grossmont Union School District. He counseled at Helix High School and later at Chaparral for at-risk kids. He took pride in his loyalty to family, friends, community, and his country.
Patrick enjoyed fishing, bowling, trap shooting, camping, motorcycle riding, and watching old westerns. He loved the Raiders, attending games both at home and away. He enjoyed cooking, sharing recipes, and feeding people. He often shared stories with his family and friends about his life’s events.
Patrick passed from this earth on June 10, 2023. He was loved by his family and friends and will be truly missed. We will remember him most for his warm advice, tough love, storytelling, and funny sayings.
Patrick’s favorite scripture was Isaiah 38:16-17:
“You restored me to health and let me live. Surely it was for the benefit that I suffered such anguish. In your love you kept me from the pit of destruction; He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men will stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
