Patrick J. McGonigle passed away peacefully with his family by his side on March 3, 2024, at St. Francis Hospital. He was 96 years old and resided in Douglaston Manor, NY.
Pat was born in Belleek, County Fermanagh, Ireland on October 24, 1927, to Patrick and Mary (McGuinness) McGonigle. Pat is predeceased by his four siblings, Kathleen, Frankie, Sean and Annie. As a young man, Pat was a talented Gaelic footballer. His team, which included his two brothers and his brother-in-law, won the 1949 League Championship. On October 19, 1956, Pat married the love of his life, Bridget (Bida) Boyle and settled in Astoria, NY to raise their family. They were devoted to each other during their 58-year marriage before Bida passed away in 2014.
Pat proudly served in the U.S. Army 1951-1953 and was a member of the Catholic War Veterans’ Association. Pat worked for the NYC Board of Education as a custodial engineer for 25 years. Pat always remained engaged and active in his community. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council No. 5911, the Clearview Golf Club and The Holy Name Society. He was also a Eucharistic Minister and usher at St. Anastasia’s. Pat was a past president of the County Fermanagh Society. He was always proud of his American citizenship and Irish heritage and until recently, marched annually in the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Pat loved his family most of all and was predeceased by his beloved grandson Rory. He is survived by his sons Sean (Phyllis), Michael (Annmarie), and Patrick (Mary); his grandchildren, Sean (Ryan), Cara, Aileen McCormack (Paul), Patrick Denis (Mary), Patrick Francis (Molly), Kathleen Toolan (Patrick), Kerry and Claire and his great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Noah, Paul, Jack, Sean and Nora.
Throughout his life, Pat drew strength and inspiration from his Catholic faith. He found a wonderful community in St. Anastasia’s Church which was so important to him. Pat’s family will remember him for his never-ending curiosity, his quick wit and his unconditional love. He will be sorely missed by all of us.