Pat Noonan

Ambrose Patrick “Pat” Noonan

February 4, 1936 – February 3, 2025

Ambrose Patrick “Pat” Noonan, 88, of Seattle, WA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on February 4, 1936, in Chicago, IL, Pat lived a life of deep faith, unwavering love, and steadfast dedication to his family and community.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, Ambrose James and Frances Marcella Noonan, his beloved sisters Mary Jean Ross and Nancy Kaminski, and many dear in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends who have now welcomed him into heaven. He leaves behind his devoted wife of nearly 63 years, Monica Mary Bernadette Noonan, and his children: Brian Noonan, Eamonn Noonan (Kristin), Aine Dugan (Kevin), and Deirdre Noonan (George). He was a cherished grandfather to Anthony (Heidi), Olivia, Christopher, Niko, and Colin, and a proud great-grandfather to Kennedy, Kamryn, Scarlett, and Heidi. He will also be deeply missed by his many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and chosen family.

Pat’s love for baseball began in his youth, but his true passion was in serving others. A man of strong Catholic faith, he was an active member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Seattle, where he served on the Parish Council for many years. His dedication to helping others extended to his volunteer work at St. Francis House, where he provided compassion and care to those in need. Early in life, Pat attended St. Ambrose University in Iowa and Worsham College of Mortuary Science in Chicago.

A proud Teamster and U.S. Army Veteran, Pat was stationed at Fort Lewis during the Berlin Crisis. His career as a Mortician was more than just a profession; it was, in his own words, “a gift from God.” He found meaning in serving people of all faiths, taking comfort in the many churches his work led him to visit. He often joked that his profession suited him well as an introvert—his clients never argued over his choice of music.

Beyond his work, Pat was a talented self-taught artist, painting throughout his life. His creativity was matched by his adventurous spirit; he and Bernadette took their young family on summer road trips across the United States in their beloved camper, creating treasured memories along the way.

We want to thank, Linda, Papa's beautiful, amazing caretaker who made him laugh, painted with him, and encouraged him to keep doing all of the things he enjoyed. She set an atmosphere of kindness and teamwork with him in anything they did, including his exercises and all the hard work he had to do coming back after his stroke.

She has been the most amazing person we could have ever wished for to be with Nana and Papa for the past three years. She showed great kindness and compassion towards both my mom and dad and became one of our family who we all love and are so grateful for!

Pat’s grandson Christopher beautifully summed up his legacy: “Papa will be remembered for his faith and the compassion that flowed lovingly from it. Empowered by faith, he loved us and showed us compassion at every opportunity.” His kindness extended beyond family, touching the lives of friends, his faith community, and those he served through his career and volunteer work.

Pat found joy in many places—Seattle, which he lovingly called “one step below heaven,” Chicago, where his roots always remained, and Ireland, where he gained a second family through his marriage to Bernadette. His trip to Rome was a highlight of his life, a place that left him deeply moved.

Pat loved telling stories, and one of his favorites was about his older sister coming to his rescue as a child. While growing up in Chicago, he found himself being bullied by a group of kids. But before things got worse, his sister came racing down the street, fists swinging, sending the bullies running. He spoke of that moment with pride, forever grateful for her protection.

His mother, Frances, was always a cherished presence in his life, and Pat often joked with family, saying, “I’m going to tell my mother on you—she will kick your butt.” It was clear that her strength and love had a profound impact on him, shaping the man he became.

Pat taught his family not through lectures but by example. Another quote from his grandson Christopher perfectly captures this lesson: “Papa wasn’t a vocal man, he didn’t exactly lay out what to do about my own faith, but his example was such that I know a virtuous life is possible if one keeps their eye on the ball.” Pat often spoke about keeping “both eyes on” when it came to his relationship with Bernadette, a lesson that extended to his faith and his approach to life itself.

In his own words, Pat reflected on his life with gratitude: “It’s been fun, this life we have been blessed with. Live your life and love it, whatever you’re doing. I married a beautiful woman and I love her—I have loved her to this very day. I enjoyed life, and I love that there is a spiritual life as well.”

Pat Noonan was a man of quiet strength, deep faith, and boundless love. His legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering devotion to family and faith will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A funeral Mass was held at St. Joseph’s Church on February 18th. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Pat’s memory to St. Francis House, Seattle.

Rest in peace, Papa. Your love, your faith, and your laughter will remain with us always.

Please share condolences, memories, & photos of Pat on the Tribute Wall, located above.

Arrangements Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home – Seattle, Washington