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Patrick Tekeli Obituary
An Extraordinary
Human Being
On June 27, 2013, Patrick Tekeli, MD, age 55, passed away in his sleep. Pat was a talented pianist, guitarist, banjoist, linguist, philosopher, mathematician, comedian, athlete, teacher, swimmer, physicist, wrestler, theoretician, surfer, diagnostician, photographer, essayist, bicycle designer, film maker, dancer and world traveler.
Born in San Francisco on November 14, 1957, Pat graduated from McAteer H.S. in 1975, UC Berkeley in 1980, and Vanderbilt Medical School in 1984 after which he started his long affiliation with California Pacific Medical Center. At the conclusion of his internship at CPMC, his colleagues and peers voted him "Intern of the Year." Pat dominated the board exams for internal medicine, and then joined the fledgling specialty known as Hospitalists - doctors with broad skill sets who are able to oversee and manage hospitalized patients when the surgeons and specialists are away. This was the harbinger of things to come.
Thereafter, Pat was one of a handful of local physicians to aggressively treat HIV/AIDS patients while mainstream medicine was still mired in confusion and denial over the disease. The approach was revolutionary, trend setting, and earned Pat the Keys to the City.
In 2010, Pat's design of the "Dr. Tea" road bike won the Best of Show at the North American Hand Made Bicycle Show. His film on the History of Bicycles is in post-production.
Treasured by his patients, and known to all for his uncanny ability to explain the most complicated issues in plain and easy to understand language. Pat was lighthearted. His favorite medicine was levity which he applied liberally, provided you could tolerate the side effects of tearing eyes and cramping abdominal muscles. Whether you were a scientist on a blog, a taxi driver in Prague, a roaming Nigerian beach vender in Sestri Levante, or a shady wristwatch hawker in Tiananmen Square, Pat's wit, humor, and charm would make an instantaneous connection that was meaningful and deep. When travelling with Pat, you would not be a stranger in a strange land for long.
If you shared one of his interests, he would inspire you to do better. Pat would want you to pursue your passions, to improve yourself and your experience with others, one day at a time. Incremental improvement, a day at a time, was an essential and contagious element of his genius and mastery of so many subjects.
Pat is predeceased by his father Theodore Michael Tekeli, and stepfather David Swezy. Pat is survived by his loving mother Stella Swezy (to whom Pat was beyond devoted), brother Michael Tekeli, nephew Nicholas Patrick Tekeli, stepbrothers Michael Swezy, Steve Swezy, Douglas Swezy, sister Wendy Swezy, companion Pam Ren, best buddy and wingman Walter Cook, Aunts Katherine Mustin (Dick), Antoinette Rizzo, Gloria Rizzo, and sports favorites the SAN FRANCISCO 49ers, the Warriors, and the San Francisco Giants.
To know Pat was to love him, and to know him well was an honor and now cherished privilege. To pay tribute to Pat privately, put on Coltrane's Naima, grab a book or journal, get in your armchair, and rigorously question authority. In lieu of flowers, please send a remembrance in his name to the Haight Ashbury Free Clinic. Friends may visit Monday the 8th after 5 PM, and a wake will be held starting at 6:30 PM at McAvoy O'Hara Co Evergreen Mortuary, Geary Blvd at 10th Ave. A Funeral Mass will be held at Mission Dolores Bascilica, 16th St at Dolores St on Tuesday the 9th at 11 AM with a private burial to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Patrick Tekeli
Sponsored by Walter Cook.
Claudia
June 27, 2025
Pat Tekeli is not someone you ever want to stop remembering. Every interaction, every remembrance brings such pleasure. Thank you!
"Lisa"
June 27, 2025
In 2016, I happened to stumble on these class photos of the med students. They were in Light Hall on the Vandy Campus in Nashville. Glad I did because they are not there anymore. Pat, I hear the birds now. Thinking of you.
Greg Cochran
June 27, 2025
As the days past, I still have many days when Patrick comes to my mind. Long live our dear Dr. Pat
Walter Cook
June 26, 2025
Just landed in Naples and it reminded me about my grand tour of Italy with Pat back in 1990. Fifteen years ago, almost to the day, Patrick was my best man at our wedding up in Toscana/Chianti! The picture of Pat for this obituary was from that wedding! He was an extraordinary human being. Wicked smart, tremendous athlete, funnier than Robin Williams, and on and on with other superlatives. If you knew, you know.
Meli
June 25, 2025
For Patrick - We think of you today and everyday!!! In your honor, today I will make sure to smell the roses, take a walk, tell a joke, and maybe work on some math problems. I might even plan a trip! Thank you for inspiring.
Love, Meli
Ted Chapler
August 4, 2024
Happy birthday (I think) to Pat´s bro Michael. Fond memories of both of you.
Greg Cochran
November 16, 2023
We caught many a wave together.
San Francisco´s OB, Marin County, San Mateo County,Santa Cruz County, Hawaii. So many great waves we caught together.
Michael Tekeli
November 14, 2023
Happy 66th Pat!
Natalie Martel
June 27, 2023
10 years later Pat just a note to say much love from Nat You are treasured and missed by all the those who,s lives you touched !!Golden slumbers
Meli Cook
June 25, 2023
Thinking of our dear and lovely Pat. I will Seize The Day today! I´ve got my red pants on. In Pat´s memory I will try to make someone´s day better. Miss you but you still inspire.
Meli
XXX
Gregory Cochran
January 4, 2023
We have such wonderful memories of surfing with Dr Pat over the years. Our trips to Hawaii were completely, outrageously fun.
Wayne Baird
January 2, 2023
Hi Walter -- dunno if you still monitor this site, but if you do, please shoot me a line. It's 10 years after Patrick's passing, and way more since Mike's (Hulse). Would love to hook up and share a beverage with you and reminisce about some of the missing years. Best to you and Happy New Year. I'm at: [email protected]
Katherine Cook
June 30, 2022
Pat, you truly exemplified that famous quote from Jack London, " I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet....The function of man is to live, not to exist.
I shall not waste my days trying to prolong them.
I shall use my time."
Your light still shines..... RIP
Carol
June 28, 2022
I will always remember Pat!
Natalie April Martel
June 27, 2022
Pat , your memory is cherished !!! You are deeply missed...Many thanks for always helping me and looking out for John Cipollina at Garden Sullivan , the concerts , the train tickets to Dave Davies SoCal run of shows with your brother Michael , the dance recital ticket you performed in , the songs you and your brother played together , you on banjo or piano him on guitar , playing catch with Nic and I at the staff picnic ....and on ......
A legacy of love Pat !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love Nat
Walter Cook
June 25, 2022
Today, I got the idea to enter my Dr. T. and Me road bike in a show or two until it earns a Best of Show too. I can´t walk by a picture of the guy without thinking about how much I loved him and miss him.
Meli Cook
June 25, 2022
Thinking of Pat, his kindness, good mischievousness (like good trouble), laugh, and brilliance. I´m getting out my Red Pants! I got them years ago in Pat´s honor . . . I´m going to wear them every day this week!! Pat, we Love and Miss you!
Meli
XXX
Fides Magisa
April 15, 2021
Patrick Tekeli was my first Primary Physician when I moved here in San Francisco from Los Angeles in 1998. I remember that I used to bring my 5-year-old daughter with me each time I visit his office. He was kind and thoughtful. He handed my daughter a small book by John Griffith London. As the years passed, we became good friends. He encouraged me to join activities in the city because he knew I was busy being a single mum and raising my child. I remember him so vibrant and filled with life and joy, sharing his love of dance and music. So free-spirited and unconventional which makes him so unique. He was one of my greatest supporters when my daughter and I did the SF “Care for Cure” Aids Walk in 2009. In September 2010, I invited him to be one of our speakers at one of my conferences in the city. We exchange emails frequently and he sent pictures of his travel to NY with his nephew in 2010 which turned out to be my last contact with him. I am glad that I kept all his emails and pictures. I am not sure when he left his private practice, but I remember that day when I said goodbye to him outside the CPMC because it was the day that he went with a few friends and with his mom to watch Andrea Bocelli at the SF Symphony. He had an extra ticket that he saved for me, but I was not able to make it. We simply lost touch over the years after that. In 2018, when I was sitting in my dermatologist's office while waiting to be called, it dawned in my mind “whatever happened to Dr. Tekeli?” Then I googled him. It is when I found out, that he is gone – I was completely shocked! It took me 3 years to come back to this memorial site to write. I was so dumbfounded and do not know how and where to start. He is such a positive person. He used to greet me “Hey Girl” with a big smile on his face. I am fortunate to have met him and had the chance to know him as a person. My experience with him is no different than the rest of the people that he touched with his loving heart and joyous attitude. As he rests in the loving arms of our God, may his family and loved ones be blessed.
NatalieMartel
June 27, 2020
Pat you made a difference The world was a better place with you in it . But your light is bright in the sky every night
Michael Tekeli
June 27, 2020
what the world needs now and always is love sweet love , if you knew Pat you knew love, keep that thought and love yourself
maria antonietta spinosa
June 27, 2020
Only recently, while looking for Pat's name on the Internet, I've found out that he is no longer with us. I've waited until right today to offer him a sprig of the plant in this photo, wich tells of my friendship with him: it was such a little sprout when I picked it up in his garden, when he hosted his friend Giusi and me, who were travelling in the States in 1992. Now it has grown and cheers up my garden in Sicily. It will keep on reminding me of Pat's generous heart, always ready to welcome anyone.
Maria Antonietta
Maria Antonietta Spinosa
June 27, 2020
I found out Pat was no longer with us only recently, while looking for his name on the Internet. I have waited until right today to offer him a sprout of the plant in this photo, which tells of my friendship with him: it was so little when I picked it up in his garden, when he hosted his friend Giusi and me, travelling in the States in 1992. Now it has grown and cheers up my garden in Sicily. It will keep on reminding me of Pats generous heart, always ready to welcome anyone.
Maria Antonietta
Meli Cook
June 26, 2020
Thinking about Dr. Pat ALWAYS puts a smile on my face . . . much needed in these difficult times. He is still brightening my day! Thank you Pat. XOXOX
Robin Wong
June 25, 2020
I knew Patrick when I was taking Jazz dance class every Friday night with Sonoo as our teacher. He was special, nice, caring, carefree and a hard worker in dance. We did a performance recital together & he gave everyone a T-shirt with our group photo pasted in front. It was a lot of fun and he performed very well. He was the only dancer that I knew to be able to do a double pirouettes while looking down on the floor. What a unique, wonderful, passionate, spontaneous & zest for life physician. Peace to one & only one Patrick the Doctor.
Robin
Mark Romero
June 25, 2020
Miss you old friend.
Gregory Cochran
November 16, 2019
Everytime we surf the north shore I think of you and Walter Cook at Wallies Reef
katherine cook
November 15, 2019
Always in our hearts and our memories
Michael Tekeli
November 14, 2019
Happy B'Day Dr. T
Russ Witte
November 14, 2019
Missing my friend and doctor. He would always start his calls with 'Hi, this is Pat, the Doc'. Of course I could recognize his voice. I remember cheering the band on at the Cannery, his stories, our shared love of travel and opera. That crazy car of his. How excited he got when I said I was moving to Pacifica, right down the street from the beach. Visiting me in the hospital when he was on-call. Compassion, excellence, humor and talent. He had it all and we lost it far too soon.
Patrick's Classic 1974 Hornet
August 4, 2019
This is a response to Claudine:
If you scroll through the photos to July 8, 2013, you'll see a picture of Patrick and me standing in front of his car. We had just finished surfing down in Pacifica and were sipping on coffee. You can just make out the model of the Silver Surfer that was glued to the roof of the car - a 1974 Dodge Hornet. Another photo of that classic is attached.
Patrick's mechanic kept telling him to send that car to the scrapyard, but Patrick loved it and kept throwing money at it to keep it rolling. I'll dig around and post some more photos of that one-of-a-kind surfer's sled. I understand that the parking attendants would actually compete to drive and park it even though other doctors in Porches, Mercedes, BMWs and the like were waiting for their cars to be taken.
Wing Man
Michael Tekeli
August 3, 2019
Claudine Ridge
August 1, 2019
How about Patrick pulling into CPMC doctor's lot and a new security guard racing over to prevent this old jalopy (I think I seem to recall it had a surfer as a hood ornament?)from entering the guarded doctor's lot. Pat flashed his MD guard with his big smile and a Hello and the security guard just got a good laugh and let him in!
Claudine Ridge
August 1, 2019
Pat, I worked at CPMC with you. I did some world traveling and came back in rough shape with no insurance- you were my savior prescribing me meds to help my ailments! You were a beautiful soul and I want you to know I am still thinking of you 6 years after your death...and this is from someone who only knew you a little!! RIP, Pat. You were taken from us all way too soon. The world misses you...still.
July 13, 2019
Been thinking a lot about Patrick too, and got reminded of a Patrick story worth sharing. On June 27th I was in Italy where I spent a fair amount of time with Patrick including him being The Best Man at my wedding in 2010 in the Chianti region at the Fonte de Medici. The picture of Patrick for this obituary was from the wedding. We had an unusual wedding in that 24 people including Patrick (about 1/3rd of the total wedding party) joined us on our honeymoon. Our first stop was in Sestri Levante on the Italian Riviera, and we also returned there on this trip. It reminded me of yet another classic "Patrick." Two of our guests were Joe and Shirley who brought their 8 year old daughter Aspen. A shyer little girl I have never met. I went down to the beach, and Joe, Shirley, Aspen and Patrick were there. Very quickly Aspen and Patrick were rollicking around the beach like two puppies. Joe turned to me and said "This is amazing, I've never seen her do this with anybody!" Me neither, and I've known Aspen since she was born. I have wondered many times since what clicked between Aspen and Patrick and wish that it had been caught on tape for our benefit. I also remember being amazed but not surprised. Patrick just had this uncanny ability to connect with people. This is an enviable theme you'll see repeated again and again in this blog, and this is also one of the many reasons why he will never be forgotten.
Sonoo Petty
June 25, 2019
Hi Patrick,
June 27th is coming up soon and I have been thinking of you A LOT.
I have your photo on my Altar with photos of my parents and ancestors who had passed.
I have simply 2 words to say to you, - "THANK YOU".
Thank you for taking my Jazz class for many years and become such an important part of the dance family!
Thank you for giving me a ride home often!
Thank you for writing such a beautiful recommendation letter for my husband!
Thank you for taking him out to such a wonderful dinner!
Thank you for taking care of me when I got really sick without even charging me for anything!
Thank you for playing piano (your beautiful original Jazz music) at our living room!
Thank you for taking me and Martina to the amazing piano concert by Ling Ling!
List goes on and on.......
WE MISS YOU PATRICK but I know that some day we will meet again.
Love,
Sonoo
June 25, 2019
Hello Pat,
I remember a Fun supper with you and your Mom!
I will always remember your shinning Smile! Miss You and
Stella!
Know your Happy dancing among the Stars!
Love,
Carol
December 6, 2018
Dear Patrick Do you remember Jim Sanders coming to your hospital vomiting blood . No one could figure it out and stop it . He thought he was going to die. Then you came in and did what the other doctors couldn't. Now I have swollen feet and no one can figure out why. But I know you could. That's just of the many reasons I miss you so much my dear brilliant student.
Audre Hallum Pacifica
Gregory Cochran
December 5, 2018
I have a picture in my kitchen of the Pacifica Surf Gang.
Walter Cook
Greg Cochran
Eric Samarrai
Ron Drews
Michelle
Pat Tekeli
Adam Musto
What a crew. We surfed San Fracisco's Ocean Beach. Rockaway, Sharp Park, Linda Mar, Montera, Kelly Street, Pleasure Point, Steamer Lane.
Did we have a ball!
Claudia R
December 4, 2018
Still so often in my thoughts. No one comes close to the kindness, compassion, intuitive understanding because he genuinely cared that Pat Tekeli, MD showed me.
November 28, 2018
The Cal vs. Stanford is this Saturday, December 1, 2018, at Berkeley. Kick-off is 12 noon. Also, at 11am will be the 5th Annual Pat Tekeli Push Up Smack Down featuring undefeated Cal Gymnastics against new comer Cal Crew. There has been some talk about Cal presenting me with some award called "Donor of the Game" so if you are going to the game, please come by the Goldman Plaza at 11 am to see the contest and the award presentation. Also, no matter how bad the game gets, stick it out because something about the event and the award should be splashed up on the Jumbotrons after half-time.
Gregory Cochran
February 28, 2018
Greg Cochran here:
Heading to Waikiki and am taking Pat with me. We are going to surf Pops on the South shore and Wally's reef on the North Shore. Long live Dr. Pat
Robin Newcombe
February 26, 2018
Patrick - that's how I always addressed you - how you remain ever present in my heart and my spirit. This is my fist time writing. I have your "Stella's Basement - Pin Me to the Stars" photo taken at your "wing man" Walter's Wedding on my little area where I have my Sacred items - sand and rocks from the Sahara in Niger, photos, etc. I see you every day . You will continue to enrich my life as long as I live - and even when I will hopefully join you in the Stars.
We met professionally in August of 1992 at CPMC Garden Campus and I was blessed to have you in my life as my physician until you joined the staff at the 'Davies Campus and ceased to provide care for us CPMC Employees.
I thank you Dear Walter for keeping this guest book available to so many, many who loved and cherished Patrick.
June 29, 2017
Always in my heart.... I remember when this photo was taken in Italy and Patrick was looking at Walter.... blazoned in my memory.
Katherine Cook Rainsberger
Meli Cook
June 28, 2017
Dr. Pat . . . that perky sweet mischievous adorable glance is so inspiring and a reminder to cease the day! I am also reminded to be a good friend. Pat was a good friend to so many. He would focus and listen - a lost art. He had empathy - a priceless gift. He had a big heart and shared it with everyone. He made people laugh until their face hurt. I can see him in his red pants and on his bike . . . Carpe diem! In Pat's memory, I will try to make someone laugh and feel happy. I'm going to go look for my red pants . . . XXX With Love, Meli
June 28, 2017
Walter, thanks for all the great pics and memories of Pat. Happy to be reminded of his great smile and the inspiration to so many.
And for the inspiration to follow his example in his memory.
Steve Haskell
Claudia Rutz
June 28, 2017
Dr. Pat Tekeli took "giving someone a boost" to a whole new level. On this day, I am inspired to do the same. Thank you, Walter.
Claudia Rutz
June 28, 2017
Thank you, Walter. Dr. Tekeli took "giving someone a boost" to another level. I wake each day hoping for an opportunity to make someones day a little better. Now I am inspired to do more with those opportunities, as Dr. Tekeli did for me.
June 27, 2017
What a coincidence. Today is the 4th anniversary of Pat Tekeli's passing, Facebook auto-selected this picture for its "Your Memories on Facebook" section and presented it to me for sharing. I woke up planning to post something here along the lines of making today "Pay Patrick Tekeli Forward Day," and picking out an appropriate picture. Here it is. One thing about Patrick was that he had a superb ability to get you to find the confidence within yourself try just a little bit harder to succeed at something old or something new. I've heard this from others time and time again: "He just got me to do it." Whether it was scholastics, athletics, music, medicine, or just being silly, Patrick inspired many to dig just a little bit deeper. Please try and pay that forward - try and give a friend, a loved one, or even a total stranger a little boost today. Make it a great Pay Patrick Tekeli Forward Day.
Walter Cook
P.S. (I took this picture in 1990 during a month long trip Patrick and I took to Bali for a surfing safari.)
Sonoo
November 21, 2016
Walter, Thank you for these wonderful photos! I recently had a dream about Patrick also!!
Greg Cochran
November 21, 2016
Our Surf crew visited one of Dr. Pats favorite surf spots in the World. We call the break on the North Shore of Oahu Wallies Reef. (Dr. Pat named it after Walter Cook).
So anyway, we paddled out at Wallies Reef and dedicated our surf session to Dr. Pat and Walter Cook. Life long friends and two very beautiful people. Both charged Wallies Reef with spectacular results. Long live Wallies Reed, long live Dr. Pat
Greg Cochran
President Pedro Point Surf Club
The Competitors Square Off
Walter Cook
November 20, 2016
Diliberto Gets Some Last Second Coaching
Walter Cook
November 20, 2016
Big Thumbs Up from Diliberto as he Coasts Cal Gymnastics into its 3rd Straight Victory
Walter Cook
November 20, 2016
Diliberto Makes it Look Too Easy.
Walter Cook
November 20, 2016
Getting Serious as the Shirts Come Off
Walter Cook
November 20, 2016
Diliberto SHowing Off the Big Guns
Walter Cook
November 20, 2016
September 28, 2016
Oh Pat, I so remember and miss you!
Would love a drive in your. Auto!
With Love, Carol
September 26, 2016
WALTER, Thank you so much for sharing your dream with us!!!
What a special dream.
I believe you 100% that Patrick in a amazing place now and enjoying his new life.
In Japan, we believe in After Life and when you dream about someone who passed away, it really means, he/she visited you in your dream.
Thank you Walter!
Sonoo
Walter Cook
September 25, 2016
Everybody,
I had a terrific dream about Patrick last night, and he is doing well. He was kicking back on a bench at a mall, and when I walked by and exclaimed "Patrick" he didn't disappear, or morph into somebody else. It was 100% Patrick, . trim and fit.
I gave him a big hug, and told him about the up coming Pat Tekeli Push-up Smack Down at this year's Big Game. He was pleased.
We toured around the mall talking for a good bit, and there was only a problem when the other people couldn't see that we were walking two-by-two.
He showed me his totally awesome new phone, and it was above and beyond any iPhone 7. Wherever he is, he can get totally cool gadgets.
We also walked down by the beach and saw an incredible air show including a Super Car that flew in the air, and submerged in the water, it could travel anywhere!!
So, he's in good shape, fine spirits, and has access to better gadgets than you can dream of.
Walter
October 6, 2015
Walter, these are super nice pictures. What a man Patrick was. We took Jazz dance classes together. He was the only guy to do a double pirouette with his head down. He was lots of fun and he loved dancing too. We did a few recitals together. Thank you for keeping this book open.
Robin
The 2nd Annual Pat Tekeli Push-Up Smack-Down took place to the amazement of thousands at Memorial Stadium, University of California. Cal Gymnastics d
Walter Cook
October 5, 2015
Walter Cook
October 5, 2015
Walter Cook
October 5, 2015
Gregory Cochran
October 5, 2015
We are heading to Hawaii and will surf Dr Pat's favorite break. "Wally's Reef" on the North Shore of Oahu. The break was named after Walter Cook, Pat's longtime friend. We will rip the place apart and I will yell "I Love you Dr. Pat as I glide down the face of a fatty. Oh, how we miss you and you will always be with us at "Wally's Reef"!!!!!
Natalie Martel
October 2, 2015
Thanks Pat you push me up!!2015❤
Walter Cook
September 23, 2015
Come to the 2nd Annual Pat Tekeli Push-Up Smack-Down October 3rd at the Berkeley Memorial Stadium.
Cal Swimming and Cal Gymnastics will battle it out for top honors and the $5,000 prize. In the event of a tie, the coaches have to Tee-up for a do or die tie breaker.
Then, step into the stadium to see the Cal Bears tear the Washington State Cougars apart at the seams.
Hope to see you there,
Your pal,
Walter
Gregory Cochran
June 9, 2015
Two years and two weeks ago Dr Pat and some of the Pedro Point Surf Club members were enjoying some epic waves at Wallies Reef on the North Shore of Oahu. Dr. Pat Commented after catching an incredible wave, "That was the best wave of my life". God Bless Dr Pat and all of you who keep Pat with us.
Claudia Rutz
June 8, 2015
Thank you, Walter Cook, for keeping the guest book open. I was a patient of Pat Tekeli, just before he left private practice. I just loved him. At that time, he gave me the encouragement to not only get through my health issues, but continue with my training and accomplish my goal of completing the "Escape from Alcatraz" swim. I saw him once again as a patient in the Davies campus ER. His genuine concern and brilliance as a physician turned my fear into calm & hope immediately. He made such an impression on me as a person & physician, that I was still talking about him today, when I was told he had passed away. I was so blessed to have known him. He was so special. "Say not in grief that he is no more, but say in thankfulness that he was..." Rabindranath Tagore
Lynne Donham
December 24, 2014
I met Patrick thru his brother, Michael years ago. Patrick always had a Great smile on his face, always a true gentleman. Anyone who knew him will never forget him. A true friend, brother & son..A very caring Dr. Patrick, you are missed & will be remembered forever by all who loved you & everyone that you made an imprint in their lives. RIP my friend..love Lynne
December 21, 2014
Go Bears!
Can't wait 'till the next smack down
love,
Kath and Bob
Walter Cook
December 20, 2014
Walter Cook
December 20, 2014
Walter Cook
December 20, 2014
Walter Cook
December 20, 2014
Walter Cook
December 20, 2014
Walter Cook
December 20, 2014
On November 22, 2014, The University of California, Berkeley, honored Patrick Tekeli with the 1st Annual Pat Tekeli Push-Up Smack-Down. Three team members from Cal Swimming and Cal Gymnastics (two of Patrick's favorite sports) squared off to do as many push-ups each in one minute. The team with the greatest total score won a donation from me in his honor. Cal Gymnastics won handily, and has issued challenges to other teams for next year's event. In the 3rd Quarter, the team members, the coaches, and me, were presented on the field while a tribute to Patrick titled "The Tekeli Effect" was narrated to the 56 thousand in attendance, and illustrated up on the stadium's Jumbotrons. Cal Development and the teams did our friend right. It was wonderful, and over the top fun.
Michael Tekeli
November 14, 2014
Today Patrick would be 57 today at 7am pst Pat was in a dream I awoke from then! I was definitely in Asia although I had never been there until this morning I was Looking for something , something to eat I think, it was gorgeous there. ButI was lost. All of a sudden a jovial Pat appears just a vibrant and smile inducing as always. I have had other dreams where we actually wrestled and I tangibley felt him, not today though he was definitely on a different level but happy as can be. Now I know what I was really looking for it was for him to wish him a Happy Birthday Dr. Tea and he found me and brought me back home to San Francisco!
Greg Cochran
October 26, 2014
Just back from Hawaii, surfed Wally's Reef (Pat named the break after Walter Cook) on the North Shore. Pat surfed with us there in May of 2013. That day was Pat's best day of surfing he had ever experienced.
We have changed the name of "WALLY'S REEF" to "WALLY AND PAT'S REEF"
Long Live Dr. Pat!
October 25, 2014
Wally, thank you so much for keeping this guest book going. Otherwise, I'll miss this inspiring poem from Michael. That's just beautiful and enable us to keep Michael's spirit alive. Kudos to both Michael & carol.
October 24, 2014
Michael I meant to tell you I am mightily impressed (favourably) with your awesome verse, how majestic and slightly Oriental with it's jiyuritsu haiku like ending.
October 22, 2014
Thank you Michael and Wally.
Carol
Michael Tekeli
October 21, 2014
Be favorable to Pat O ye powers
Of the kingdom divine
Let glory and eternity be in
In your left and right hands
So you may attain to victory
Let pity and justice restore
Your soul to it's original purity
May understanding and
Wisdom divine conduct us
To the imperishable crown
Everyday should be as it was on top of Mauna Kea
The perspective from there
All things within reach
no thoughts only peace
Stephen Haskell
October 21, 2014
Thanks for keeping the guest book going, Wally. It is truly a remarkable testimony to a remarkable person.
October 20, 2014
Ditto Walter! although I was not at the game.... I wore my Tekeli baseball colors with pride while doing laundry.
Kath
Ready for the Giants!
Michael Tekeli
October 19, 2014
Thank you Walter Cook for insuring the permanence of this collection of so many important stories and feelings?
Walter Cook
October 18, 2014
Hey Everybody who has a "Pat Tekeli" Giantesque Baseball Jersey, Be sure to wear it proudly next week!!
Go Giants!!!
Nelly Grenon
August 13, 2014
Pat was my physician for several years, and I've never known a more caring human being. He opened his office for me on a Saturday, when it was normally closed. He walked me to the hospital, to have an MRI, and gave me his cell phone number, to call him anytime, when I went thru depression.
I know live on the other side of the world, and always think of him fondly. What a terrible loss.
Suzi Keyte
July 31, 2014
Dear Dr. Tekeli, I learned of your passing today-July 31st! So sad, but happy to have read all these wonderful memories from family, friends & colleagues. As my Primary Care Physician I always looked forward to my appointments - your office was so dynamic & fun. I had no idea how much more was going on in your life. We were all blessed to have known you. Your family/friends might consider visiting the SF Spiritualist Church (corner of Clay & Washington) for services where mediums enable those who have passed to communicate with loved ones in the congregation.
Greg Cochran
July 8, 2014
Aloha Dr. Pat
Yesterday I wore our Pedro Point Surf Club Contest t-shirt with you name on the sleeve. I love having you with me at the beach.
Sara and Michael Ghirawoo
July 4, 2014
I am still in awe of the person you are. I say are because your life and spirit still influences me to be a better person and want more from life. Michael and I miss you more than anyone can know. We drove by the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre yesterday and looked at each other and said "I wish Pat could have visited us here" because we know how much you loved swimming. Thanks again for all the great memories and inspiration.
Fran Quinzon
July 3, 2014
Dearest Banjo Pat.I have been playing the Baby Martin you left me... Our songs Landslide, Fire and Rain and a hundred others."but i always thought that i'd see you one more time again." I feel this void where you were on this earth playing music, talking bout life, how you love your Mom,helping people get welll ,making me laugh and remenice about our youth. It's Over 30 years ago at CYO when we played our first songs together under the redwood trees with our campers around us. Your Blowup style Pinto driving up that insane dirt road to pick me up at Wildwood for our nights off. How did all this time pass? I have no one to talk to about you, Pat. What happened? I will make my way to Holy Cross with the Baby Martin and sing you some songs like when we were young kids. Tell me in my dreams the songs you want to hear and i will hear your banjo and piano cords making me sound and feel better with every song. I still see you at my crummy piano with the broken E key--head down- feeling the songs, lost in your heart of hearts--music and love. How lucky we were to have met in this life and reconnect decades later. I only wish i was more mindful at keeping in touch.You are always my friend always in my heart. I send you and your sweet Mom my hugs and love. I am certain we will meet again.
Meli Cook
June 11, 2014
My heart is warmed and inspired by Pat too. In his memory we should dance a little dance, sing a little song, paint a painting or write a poem. Learn something new. Do something kind for someone today. That's my goal in his honor.
XOXO
Katherine Cook
June 10, 2014
Here, here..... I changed purses yesterday and your business card with your picture fell out it.....yes, you still remain a positive force for the good. Your impish smile inspires me always, Our family will never forget how you cared for our mother.
June 8, 2014
I know many that are still struggling with your passing Pat, it still stings! Your memory is strong here and the love for you is so deep. My wish is that you are floating in bliss and feel nothing but love and tenderness. You were a force Pat, a beam of positive energy that none will forget.
LA. March 2007
Pam Ren
June 5, 2014
June last year this time, you were still with me. I still can't believe you are gone almost a year. Not a day I am not thinking about you. I hear your voices, I see your smiles, I image you were standing in front of me. I look your pictures over and over, all those year we were together. There give me so much memories about you, you are special to me. I feel how hard it is life without you being around me. I wish I could bring you back the day when I found you. I am so sorry, I wish I would arrive earlier. I know you loved life. You brought so much joy to others. Pat, I miss you, love you.
Walter Cook
April 12, 2014
That picture was taken in Tuscony, Italy. Pat was my best man at my wedding in June 2010. He was looking up at my wife and I getting married.
That picture makes me smile too.
Walter aka Wally
Carol Barnett
April 11, 2014
His picture makes me Smile too and Remember !
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