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Patrick Flood Obituary
Flood was a tireless advocate of social justice. He had worked since the 1960s to bring together people of different faiths to tackle racial segregation, discrimination and poverty, friends say.
As a young Catholic priest in Milwaukee, Flood joined the fight for civil rights in the South and in the poor Northern neighborhoods he served. A photo of Martin Luther King Jr., a gift from King himself, hung on Flood's office wall as testament to his work.
Flood left the priesthood in 1975 and married Marie Burton, a former nun and artist. They have two grown children.
The family came to Austin in 1989 when Flood took the helm of the newly created Austin Metropolitan Ministries, an interfaith organization aimed at building relationships across religious, racial and economic lines.
"He delighted in diversity and had a passion about knowing that people loved God in their own way," said Susan Wills , who succeeded Flood as director in 2000, at the same time the organization changed its name to the Austin Area Interreligious Ministries. She left in 2004.
It was Flood's sense of humor - expressed by a "wonderful wobbly laugh," according to his niece - and enormous patience that enabled him to unify people of different perspectives.
"He was a person that in the worst situation, where everyone was at each other's throats, he was able to bring humor into the situation and was always the perfect diplomat," said Dismas Becker , a former priest who worked with Flood in Milwaukee.
Fred Lewis , a board member at the interfaith group, said Flood was well-read in many different faiths and used that understanding to find common ground.
"He could get along with anybody," Lewis said. "He had just a tremendous amount of compassion and love."
Under Flood's leadership, the group established programs for community mentoring of juvenile offenders, housing repair for low-income families and refugee resettlement.
Flood was one of the founders of the Capital Area Homeless Alliance, which is now Front Steps, manager of the homeless shelter downtown.
Flood's niece, Mary Flood Nugent, said her uncle had a deep faith that kept him working for those in need.
"I don't grieve his death because he always knew that this world was not the end of the game for him," Nugent said. "I just think his work here was done."
- Kate Alexander, AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
[email protected]; 445-3618
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Memories and Condolences
for Patrick Flood
November 8, 2013
Good Lord..this is years late, but I felt compelled to remember Father Flood. From Milwaukee, I remember folks exulting, "Father Flood is marching...." My father Saul knew Pat well during the 1960s struggles in Milwaukee. Pat was a person who comes along a couple of times in a generation...good to his core and beyond. In 1984, we spent two weeks together touring Israel on a trip arranged by my father. what a cherished memory. The world is in ways we sometimes cannot appreciate, a better place due to a very few people. Father Flood was one of them.
God bless Pat and his family.
Len Sorrin
April 4, 2013
I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HIM AND PRAY FOR HIM AS I HOPE HE WILL PRAY FOR ME. jan garlette (hintz) newport news va
February 4, 2013
I know Fr Patrick Flood from Spring Bank Monastery in Oconomowoc Wisconin.I rememberFr Flood swam across lake Okauchee(of course he was a seminarian
back then.I also remember Fr Flood from
St Thomas Aquinas in Milwaukee,Fr Flood
was also the other "Angelic"person.
Pawel Trawicki
Betty Brill now Gregory
June 3, 2009
I know these condolences are late but I just found out as I was speaking with someone yesterday and the topics were St. Thomas in the early 60's. Father Flood was my friend through my mother's divorce and my father's alcoholism during 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade. He was always there for me and I will never forget him.
John Breska
January 4, 2009
I have fond memories of Father Flood from my days at Saint Thomas Aquinas grade school. I too was an altar boy in those days and celebrated mass with him. I am saddened at the news of his passing.
Farewell Friend
I’ll miss your voice and gentle way,
I’ll miss you like the night waits day
but when I look upon the sky,
your special star will catch my eye
and in that moment very true,
I’ll thank God for knowing you.
Patrick Michael (Pat) Sturm
December 27, 2008
I was a diminutive third grader when I met Father Flood at St. Thomas Aquinas School. He was the Religion instructor for our class and I was immediately impressed that he was interested in knowing my name. I made it easy for him because our first and middle names are the same. Pat took a personal interest in all of the students, and I looked upon him as the most inspirational religious figure of my childhood. I commited my life to Christ in my twenties and eventually became an ordained minister and US Navy Chaplain. One of my joys as a chaplain was showing a documentary about Dr. Martin Luther King. As the documentary filmed one of Dr. King's famous marches I saw what looked to be Father Flood walking with the marchers. Thank you for being an inspiration, and all praise and glory to the Lord Jesus Christ who teaches us how to love and serve others.
Marilyn Guten Lane
December 24, 2008
My memories of Pat were in Milwaukee during the 60's when I worked at Northcott Neighborhood House with Lu Walker. Pat was such a kind and generous person.
I remember him with such a winning personality. And I recall walking with him and so many others in Father Groppi's open housing marches.
My thoughts are with Marie and the family.
Fr. Michael Barrett
December 15, 2008
Patrick was most influential in my vocational choice of the priesthood. As a newly ordained priest at St. Thomas Aquinas, Patrick inspired me enough, some 40 years ago, for me to say to myself: "I want to be like Father Flood." Now pastor of a central city parih not far from STA, I may have not become like Patrick, but I do continue the spirit of his ministry to and for the disenfranchised. Patrick's life and life's love have become an embodiment of the Second Vatican Council.
Nancy and Bob Morrison (Lindahl)
December 14, 2008
Patrick was at our parish in Milwaukee. He was the priest for my first communion. Our family will miss him. My maiden name was Lindahl. My sisters send their condolences too.
Nancy Morrison
Debra Martin
December 12, 2008
I read all the wonderful accounts of Patrick Flood’s life and smile.
He obviously was a very selfless man with great skills and qualities; I however was too young in the early 60’s to understand all of this. What I remember is a fun, good-looking priest who really knew how to jump rope! Let us not forget how much he loved to make young kids laugh. Now at 54 years, I still smile thinking about the Patrick Flood I knew. :-)
Marilyn Turkovich
December 7, 2008
Dear Marie,
I just heard from Maura about Pat's death. I read the newspaper releases and was moved by all of the things that Pat has accomplished and how dearly people thought of him. Hopefully all of these deepfelt words are some comfort to you. For those of us who knew Pat and you in the 60s back in Chicago we still can see his smile, hear his laugh, and feel his great love of life. The stories are too rich not to recount, especially the mattress and candle fire incident. Just recalling the episodes of the past brings laughter through the tears. What a man he was! I'm so glad for the brief last conversation with him. I'll remember the laugh and the charm. We are all so fortunate to have had him touch our lives.
You are in my thoughts,
Marilyn
Fr. Gene Pocernich
December 6, 2008
Dear Marie and Flood family,
Know that you have been in my many reflective thoughts and prayers at this time of Pat's passing. He was an inspiration and mentor to me in a very personal way early in my priesthood, guiding me into social ministry. Those were great years in the '70's and '80's. The seeds have been planted, much fruit has been harvested, new seeds are being put forth, with a hopeful future in a troubled time. I'm sure that Pat will have something to do, from above, with getting things organized, in the breaking open of God's Kingdom.
I hope to pass on word about Pat's death to Jack Shea and Len Dubi in Chicago. Pat is now united with those many other friends, gone before us, who worked hard together in the cause of social and economic justice. It has been a rich history. In the peace of Christ.
Jackie Maggiore
December 6, 2008
Dear Marie,
My husband, Tony, and I knew Pat in Milwaukee so many years ago - both so committed to justice and serving the poor. Pat's passion for making this world a better place for all was solid - and he managed to do this with such respect and kindness and fun along the way. Tony passed away 4 years ago - both of them finished with their work here. Maybe Pat can pass along the excitement of Obama's election to Tony. My sympathies to you and your family - and joy in the celebration of a wonderful man.
Deacon Ralph & Jane Kornburger
December 5, 2008
Dear Marie, Brendan, and Caitlin,
Jane and I would like to extend our heartfelt sympathy, as you mourn Patrick's loss, as Child of God, Husband, Father, Grandfather, Mentor, and servant to God's baptismal call, with the emptiness encountered by the beloved at this time. The influence on our lives of the both of you, when you resided on Philip Place and we served as your Journal carriers, along with the openness of sharing your lives, in our formative years, has greatly influenced the life we now live in service to the church and married couples. May the spiritual presence of the one who answers to the name of Mother and Father of all, fill you with an overflowing abundance of strength, comfort, presence, and harmony as you continue on the path of life.
Rachelle Richards
December 5, 2008
My deepest condolenses to the family of a man who accomplished many things! I love you Caitlin!
George Gleason
December 5, 2008
One brief glimpse of a powerful spirit is all that I was given of Pat, it is enough to draw us closer to goodness itself. Thank you. Bless you Marie.
JoAnn Mulert
December 5, 2008
Marie,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May the love of family and friends see you through this time.
Bistrica River in Dita's Beloved kosova
December 5, 2008
Aferdita 'Dita Dauti-Heilman
December 4, 2008
My deepest sorrow for the passing of the wonderful man that made everyone feel comfortable and cared for in his presence. He made so many things possible with his gentle and friendly demeanor, compassion, open smile and always present twinkle in his caring eyes.
I feel privileged I knew him after Refugee Resettlement Program became one of the programs of the Austin Metropolitan Ministries where I served for many years. Pat was one of the people that offered his warm words of encouragement and support when I had to prepare myself for, till then the unthinkable, resettlement of my own family members after Kosovar refugees were going to arrive in Austin.
On behalf of all the refugees that AMM Refugee Resettlement Program assisted in starting new lives in Austin area, my family and I would like to offer our sincere sympathy to Pat's family, friends and every one else touched by him.
One of my stories about the Balkan's Saga
Colors of Freedom
I often think about the days when troubles started. Those memories are stored deep in one of the secret drawers of your memories, not because nobody else should see them, know about them, or that you might be embaraced of them. You feel the need sometimes to think about them and try to make sense of the times. Early eighties; big hair, lots of make up, early college days, winds of change, crumbling political systems…..
I like to sit on my back porch overlooking the University of Texas tower and think about the times growing up in Kosova, which was the one of two autonomic regions in then Yugoslavia. I like to seep my Turkish-Bosnian-Albanian-Serbian-Balkan coffee that I prepare in that old fashion way; like my mother, grandmothers, aunts and other ladies in the Balkans. My old coffee pot that I brought with me when I left; my old coffee grinder that Steve, my New Mexico born husband bought in the old Kosovar city of Prizren, known for its hyacinth aromas, icy cold waters of the river Bistrica and old coble stone streets, are one of my rituals and best friends that help me stay connected with my childhood, my youth and my people. Just before the water boils over, I ad the small coffee spoon of sugar, two same spoons of freshly ground coffee, stir them and watch the magic take place with it’s own dance in my coffee pot. And the smell of coffee awakens my taste buds. My memories are ready to come alive. I take my coffee in a small, delicate blue demitasse cup that my mother brought when she first came to stay with us in ‘93. Light Texas breeze frolics through the rolling hills; plays with my hair and brings the earthy fragrances of the Hill Country that reminds me of the loving scents of my homeland. I slowly rock myself towards those days without colors. Now when I close my eyes I see the glorious colors of the rainbow. I see red, green, blue, yellow, pink, white, colors of freedom. But, I remember then, I couldn’t see any other color except black and gray. I feel tears rolling down my face.
May 12, 2005
Aferdita (Dita) Dauti-Heilman
Austin, TX
Frank Schneiger
December 4, 2008
I was twice an acolyte of Pat, first as an altar boy when he was a young priest and then in the civil rights movement. To be with Pat was to be on the right side, both morally and historically, but always without the bitterness and anger that often surrounded us. I am just one of many people whose lives Pat changed for the better. My prayers to the family.
Kathleen Hart
December 4, 2008
I am so glad he lived to see Obama elected. After all the civil rights marches and demonstrations, we all celebrated that day. I am sure he is watching over his own family as well as our new President and his family.
Tom Sitter
December 3, 2008
I wish to god there were more of Pat Floods in the church's ministry today . Whenever I feel that the Catholic church is withering on the vine there appears a Groppi or a Berrigan a Rosebaugh, a Timmerman, a Luzi, a Brennan or a Flood to infuse fresh blood into the church's fusty veins
Mary Berwick
December 3, 2008
Dear Marie,
How special it is to remember now your and Pat's presence at the ACPJ Gandhi Banquet on October 2 at Huston-Tillotson University.
You both came especially to honor our friend Don Bobb and his many years of peace activism in Austin.
From the moment of his arrival in Austin, Pat was using his skills as a peacemaker in all aspects of the work of AMM.
He displayed such affirmation and respect for everyone he met. And he so relished diversity!
I love the photo displayed here ...just so Patrick! Open hands, open mind, open heart!
May God hold you close in your grief.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and Brendan and Catlyn.
Patricia Fuchs
December 3, 2008
I worked with Pat many, many years ago and remember him fondly.
Betty & Ed Voss
December 3, 2008
With Love and Prayers to YOU and Yours! Pat was very instrumental in making our marriage and community involvement more relevant and meaningful to this very day.
Pat gave us courage in the "60's and encouraged us to take leadership roles. His impact on our lives has been profound. . .
LeRoy Paulin
December 3, 2008
Marie, Brendon & Catlyn: Words cannot express our shock at reading of Pat's passing. We sure will miss him up at the lake.
LeRoy and Marceline Paulin
Grafton Wi 53024
Marv Fr. Knighton
December 3, 2008
Dear Marie and Family:
My thoughts and prayers are with you as you deal with the passing of a good man. Patrick truly served God and people in various aspects of a ministry both within the religious and public sectors of life. It is our faith that summons us to believe what Patrick truly believed that his "life is simply changed not ended." I hold you Marie and the family in prayer.
Sincerely,
Fr. Marv Knighton '75
The Rowan Family
December 3, 2008
Pat & Marie were our neighbors in Milwaukee many moons ago. I have vivid memories of the both of them in my parent's back yard drinking Guiness and sharing laughs with other friends. Marie, Brendan & Caitlan-- our deepest condolences.
ellen flood
December 2, 2008
Pat was my brother-in-law and a mentor. We matured together, and my vision of life as a christian was enhanced by his example and his love. I shall miss him greatly. Ellen flood
Mary Alice and Mike Williams
December 2, 2008
We honor Pat's memory as a man with passion for justice and compassion for all. We have warm memories of shared efforts in Milwaukee. Our sympathy to his family and colleagues.
Jim O'Leary
December 2, 2008
To Marie and all the Floods, I add my own words of sympathy because I had the privilege of being Pat's friend. He could cut through controversy and I don't think he ever met a person he didn't like. He brought out the best in all of us. I will bet anything he is now with the God he believed in.
Lorraine Blancarte
December 2, 2008
Patrick Flood was one of the founding members of the Board of Directors at Front Steps (formerly Capital Area Homeless Alliance). That's how I got to know him and his great grin! Every Board meeting he had a kind word and asked about the family. Several months after he resigned from the Board, I saw him last at Blue Star Cafeteria in Austin, TX having lunch by himself and when he saw me, he immediately began a conversation as if we had just seen each other yesterday. Pat made everyone feel comfortable that way. Good-bye Pat. We'll talk later.
Ansar & Abudi @ Capital City Automotive
December 2, 2008
We only knew Patrick becasue we were his car guys, him and Marie would bring their vehicles to us no matter what the problem. If they needed a repair or they needed to purchase a Sentra or Jeep. We actually have Marie's car in the shop right now. All I can say is They are the 2 of the best people we deal with. Patrick never questioned us and never even asked how much anything were to cost. Not that he did not care about money he was just a good hearted person that was really easy going and built a great friendship. Our prayers go out to Marie and her family and we know Patrick will always be remembered, I know we will remember him forever.
Tom Honore'
December 1, 2008
Marie,
Jan and I were deeply saddened to read that Patrick had died. We have nothing but good, good memories. We have a snapshot taken at our wedding, with Pat presiding, where you are looking at him with love. We wish we could be closer to comfort and weep and rejoice in thanksgiving for the joy, laughter and generous giving that Pat gave. Tom & Jan Honore'
Bob LiVolsi
December 1, 2008
On Thanksgiving evening, we were with friends talking about people we admired, people who stood for Christ and the true intent of Christ's mission on Earth. I focused on Pat Flood, my CHRP brother and dear friend, no matter how long it had been since we had last talked. For the next three days, he stayed on my mind, my normally unfulfilled personal commitment to treat myself and call him staying in my mind, a little like a kid waiting for Christmas.
It wasn't until Sunday that I learned that Pat had passed away on Friday. A very sad moment, but somehow - since it was Pat - I had complete confidence that the outcome for him was very good.
When with Pat over the years, he instantly brought peace into conversations. His presence alone seemed to cause the rest of us to listen more attentively to one another, to be more tolerant, loving and kind. And Pat was fun to boot. He represented the "laughing" Christ, not the Christ of dark churches and heavy-handed rules. I'll never forget that the song he chose for the music of his CHRP witness was "Playboy of the Western World." And he was a true friend in whom you could securely confide anything, and who did not hesitate to share himself. I'll miss you Pat. I'll miss knowing you're just a phone call away from sitting down to shoot the breeze. The good news may be that we don't need earthbound communication to reach Pat now. Since Friday, he's just a thought and a lift of the brow away. I'm looking up, Pat, and I know you're there. Thank you for all you brought to this life and thanks to your family for sharing you with us for all these years.
Ed Flahavan
December 1, 2008
Our deepest sympathies to you, Marie, and to your entire family in Pat's loss... What a wonderful man he was! What an engaging person: fun, devoted to justice, clever, patient and wily. I first met him in the Catholic Committee on Urban Ministry (CCUM) at Notre Dame University in the 1960's with Msgr. Jack Egan, Geno Baroni, Bp. John McCarthy and a small army of wonderful priests. We stayed good friends over the years. He even came to our wedding three years ago! A mighty oak has fallen in God's forest of wonderful people.
Ed Flahavan and Susan O'Leary
Don Sass
December 1, 2008
Dear Marie,
Thinking of you and treasuring our long lunch with you and Pat and Pam and myself. It is such a special memory. I miss him already. Look forward to seeing you in Wisconsin.
Tears, smiles, and laughs.
Don Sass
Marie Krebs
December 1, 2008
Dear Marie and family,
Words cannot begin to express my deep felt sadness over hearing of the loss of Pat. What an extraordinary man he was. As you know, he was a man with a fierce intellect, a wicked sense of humor, boundless compassion and a commitment and dedication to social justice that inspired many of us. I feel grateful and very blessed to have had the privilege of working with him.
Prior commitments in Dallas prevent me from attending his services, but please know that I'm with you in spirit. God's speed Pat
gayle degeurin
December 1, 2008
Never met a man with a greater sense of humor, dogged determination mixed with just the right amont of wisdom and love. he will long be remembered....love to his beautiful family,
Gayle DeGeurin
Ruben J Garcia
December 1, 2008
Patrick and Marie -
Both of you have touched so many lives here on earth. Patrick you will be missed by so so many - however - the joy you must be in at this moment in the eternal life.
Because of you at AMM - the fundraiser for the StreetWISE program happened with "Selena" back in September 1992.
I've missed seeing you and Marie and only hope and pray that your family and friends will continue your joy for life and love for his fellow man -
I love you -
Peter Waldheim
December 1, 2008
I first met Pat Flood when he was a young priest heading up the Urban Affairs office of the Milwaukee Catholic Archdiocese.
Although I am Jewish, I felt incredibly drawn to this worthy man from whom so much social good emanated as a result of his deep-seated religious convictions.
I haven't seen Pat Flood in many years, but I have thought of him often and still tell stories about the accomplishments, qualities and character of this impressive human being.
My prayers and best wishes are extended to his wife, children, and loved ones. we have all lost a giant.
Rita Cannestra
December 1, 2008
We extend our sympathy to Marie and his family. I will always be grateful for Pat's leadership in the Greater Milwaukee community, especially during the open housing marches, support for church based organizing and his many years at Interfaith. He was an example for all of us and his leadership lives on in many of us.
Frank and Rita Cannestra (Milwaukee, WI)
Melody McCarty
December 1, 2008
I met Pat at Wellness Matters PT clinic a few years ago. What a room lighting smile he had and what a positive man he was!
I pray that his family and his many friends will be comforted. He was one of those people who really proved one person can have a positive affect on so many others.
Greg and Shelby Kania
December 1, 2008
I followed his wonderful social ministry activities in Austin. He truly was a Christian constantly doing love of neighbor activities, and always with a very positive attitude. He remained to the end "young at heart." I'm sure that he is now being rewarded for his service to the needy in whom he saw the person of Christ. My condolances go out to all of his family and friends
Anthony McNamara
December 1, 2008
Although I did not know Pat personally, I did get the opportunity to spend some time with him throughout the years. He was always positive and left people feeling good. He will be missed.
Laura Patlove
December 1, 2008
Pat was one if the first people I met ten years ago when I came to Austin to run the "Hands On Housing" Program at Austin Metrolipolitan Ministries. I was immediately drawn to him as we shared many similar political and activist causes from the 60's. He and I worked closely at AMM after my supervisor left the agency. When Pat retired from AMM, I left shortly thereafter. It did not seem the same there without his leadership. I feel priviledged to have known Pat. He was a loving and caring person. His sense of humor got me through some tough times. He was one of the most honest and forthright people I have ever met and always was positive.
My sincere condolences to Marie and their children. They too were fortunate in having such a wonderful Dad and husband. And I, by knowing such a kind human being. He will be missed by all who crossed his path.
Rick Ebert
December 1, 2008
To Pat's family I extend my sympathy and prayers with the confidence that Pat is living in heaven with God. I shared table leadership with Pat on a CRHP outreach and we quickly became friends. May my friend rest in the peace of Christ the Lord.
Jane Froelich Beareagle
November 30, 2008
Can't think about Pat without smiling. I always felt that he liked me because he lit up when I saw him. Thinking about this, I realize that Pat lit up and made everyone feel like they were something special! He saw the good in all of us. I met him through AAIM but he was someone I could call upon privately for insights and he never seemed to mind. I'm really happy that AAIM was able to honor him with the HOPE Award so that more people could learn about his gifts to the community throughout his well-spent life. Prayers for the progress of his wonderful soul and for comfort to his family. From his Baha'i friend.
John and Benita Clark
November 30, 2008
Pat is and will always be one of God's great gifts to our very troubled
world. His work in Milwaukee still has significant impact. He lived the Gospel message and made the Beatitudes and the Sermon on the Mount not just words but flesh and blood reality. In the words of Robert
Frost : You, Pat, "have taken the least traveled road and that has made all the difference"
Roselind & Jim Hejl
November 30, 2008
Patrick and Marie are dear friends. We will miss Pat very much. He was a beautiful person who made the world a better place.
Jim Mallios
November 30, 2008
Patrick was my CHRP brother from St. John Neumann. His kindness and social activism were an inspiration to me. I will always remember his willingness to poke fun at social shibboleth and his embrace of diversity. He will be missed.
Vikki Smith
November 30, 2008
Patrick was our neighbor and we enjoyed many conversations, although brief, when we would meet on the street as we walked our dogs. He was a kind and gentle man, a good neighbor, and, though we mourn, we know that he is safe in God's hands, being rewarded for all his contributions while amongst us. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.
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