Patrick Manners Sullivan

Posted

Feb. 27, 1947–Dec. 11, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Patrick Manners Sullivan, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend who left us on Dec. 11, 2024, at 77. 

Patrick was born in Seattle but raised in La Canada Flintridge. He spent much of his life in California, Hawaii and Colorado. He was one of 10 siblings, and his life was defined by his deep love for the ocean, the outdoors and traveling to new places. He was a dedicated father, raising three children mostly on his own. As a passionate surfer, he spent countless hours riding waves, with memorable surf trips to the Channel Islands and Bali alongside his oldest son, Isra. He sailed the Mediterranean with Dali and explored Mexico with his youngest daughter, Sierra. Whether camping trips to Mount Shasta, the Oregon coast, Mexico and Lake Powell, or wakeboarding and fishing in the ocean and lakes, or road trips with his granddaughters, Patrick shared his zest for life with his family and friends, teaching them the importance of hard work, play and being present in the moment.

Patrick was also a skilled golfer, achieving a remarkable hole in one at Turtle Bay on Oahu, and could even play the flute, which he would use to playfully wake his children with the bugle call reveille, I can’t get them up this morning. His talents didn’t stop there — Patrick was extremely handy and could design and build almost anything. He made his living as a contractor, building and remodeling everywhere he went. Whether crafting a new project or offering advice, his practical wisdom and ability to make things with his hands were legendary.

A man of deep principles, Patrick believed his purpose on earth was to help others. He was granted an honorable discharge from the Navy as a conscientious objector during Vietnam due to his belief in “what is right for (his) own spiritual understanding as well as for the eventual peace and brotherhood of mankind.” As a single dad, he worked hard to raise his two daughters and son, ensuring they learned how to care for themselves, eat healthy, help others and be kind. He always loved to bring people together for a good meal, and his taco nights were something we always looked forward to. He extended his dedication to self-care and wellness to his family by sponsoring visits to the Optimum Health Institute with him, a testament to his belief in alternative perspectives.

Patrick’s love for life, adventure, family and friends will always be remembered. He is survived by his two daughters, four granddaughters, one great-granddaughter, eight siblings and many more loved ones scattered across the globe who will carry his legacy forward in their hearts. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the waves he surfed, the trails he blazed and the love he shared.

Two celebrations of life will be held to honor Patrick’s memory: one in Pagosa Springs, Colo., on Feb. 1, and another in Santa Barbara, Calif., on March 15. For more details, please contact Dali Pyzel or Sierra Oshita.