Dr. J. Patrick Decoteau

Earl & I are so sorry to hear of Patrick's passing. I found this on a FB page, as I was curious not to have heard from in many years. Fly high with the eagles!

As a graduate student in rehabilitation counseling at SC in the 1990s, I was fortunate to have "Dr. D." for several courses. He was a gifted and passionate teacher. I learned many important lessons from him that no doubt have had a positive impact on the many vocational rehabilitation clients I have served over the years. He leaves a great legacy; his influence will continue to persist through his many students. Sending sincere condolences to Dr. D.'s family.

He was a big teddy bear of a guy. One of my favorite colleagues in rehabilitation. Steadfast and invested in making people's lives better. And he did it every time he said hello!

Dear Donna, I am so sorry to hear about your husband's passing away. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

My deepest condolences for the DeCoteau family. I was a professional colleague of Pat´s in rehabilitation counselor education and practice. He was a kind, generous and dedicated colleague and advocate in the field. He will be missed by many.

I am so sad to hear about Dr. D´s passing. Dr. D was an incredible professor with such a passion for his work. I was a student at Springfield College at the time of his SCI- and remember feeling devastated when I heard the news. He inspired me to "walk the walk" and challenge myself to be the best I could be, so I could help others be their best too. Now, I work as and occupational therapist at an inpatient rehab hospital and work with patients with SCI, among other diagnostic groups too....

He was the sweetest colleague. His smile was infectious and his contribution to the field will go on!

I´m so sad to hear the passing of Dr. D. He was a great mentor and supported me in my journey to a fulfilling career. I met Dr. D through the rehab counselor core courses that he taught in the state of VT. After the course work and trainings he provided, he offered to be a reference for me. His contribution led me to wonderful career path of being a counselor and then moving into a regional manager for the state of VT. I will be forever grateful for his guidance, dedication, and support....