Allison "Al" Henry Patrick

Allison H. Patrick, Jr., a devoted husband and father, veteran, teacher, advocate, and family man, passed from his earthly life on September 30, 2020.
Al, or “Sonny” as he was known, was born June 19, 1935 in Portland, OR. He grew up in Walla Walla and Spokane, WA. He met his wife to be, Helen Ann McElroy, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Elementary School and later in a teen group in high school. They eventually married on August 25, 1956.
Al was commissioned in the Army in 1958 and served foreign tours of duty in Korea, Vietnam, and Germany, earning the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service, Army Commendation, and Vietnam Campaign medal with silver star. He retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel after 22 years of service, and began his second career with Oklahoma City Public Schools until his 2nd retirement 19 years later.
Al and Helen were 40-year residents of Norman, OK., active members of St. Thomas More University Catholic Church, and volunteered in many organizations including the local chapter of the Military Officers Association of America, AARP, the League of Women Voters, and several local arts organizations. Al was a strong advocate for social justice, and frequently advocated for veterans and aging rights at the state capitol. He was also a driving instructor for AARP, keeping our seniors safe on the road.
Al was devoted to Helen and deeply cherished his role of serving her needs, the result of sharing nearly 60 years of marriage and raising their family together. He passed to his children his love of music and an appreciation for working with their hands.
Al loved to travel with Helen, always keeping family at the center of their priorities. They enjoyed visiting family everywhere they went, even Ireland. He also had a deep love for family roots and he and Helen visited Ireland together numerous times during their years together. He loved Irish culture, music, and Guinness beer.
Al is preceded in death by his wife, Helen Ann McElroy, infant son Joel Thomas Patrick, and brother Rick Swartout. Al is survived by his brothers Tom Patrick and wife Janice of Bakersfield, CA; Dennis Swartout and wife Kyong, Tim Swartout and wife Joni, all of Spokane, WA. His children, daughter Kerri (Patrick) Bundy and husband Ed of Reston, VA; sons Chris Patrick of Sisters, OR; Tom and wife Vickie of Ardmore, OK; David and wife Kelly of Oklahoma City, OK; and Steve of Norman, OK. He also had ten grandchildren, Cory, Ian, Allan, Sean, Kimberly, Johnathon, Peter, Kennedy, Killian, and Hillary; twelve great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends all over the world.