Patrick Joseph Finnegan

Patrick, Joseph Finnegan passed away peacefully at Saratoga Hospital on August 25, 2024, after having spent the day surrounded by his loving family. Pat was born in Brooklyn, New York on November 23, 1947, and spent his earliest years in Broad Channel, Queens until his family moved to Lynbrook, Long Island. After graduating from Lynbrook High School, he enlisted in the United States Army.

Pat was a disabled veteran who served with the 82nd Airborne and with the 173rd Airborne in Vietnam. he was proudest of having been awarded both his parachute wings and the Combat Infantry Badge.

For more than a half century, Patrick, through his writings, his teachings, and unselfish commitment emerged as a conscience for the Vietnam War and all those forever changed by it. He was a life member of Vietnam Veterans Against the War, a spokesperson for Veterans For Peace and Reconciliation, and a founding director for the Capital District Vietnam Veterans of America.

Perhaps his most significant contribution came as a voice on the issue of Agent Orange, the toxic defoliant sprayed in Vietnam. His national and statewide leadership resulted in the formation of commissions, focus on lawsuits, and benefits for Vietnam veterans and their families. Following the nation's normalization of relations with Vietnam, Patrick led the first veteran delegation to the United Nations to discuss with the Vietnam president the effect of Agent Orange on the Vietnamese people and Vietnam's environment.

After his military service, Pat was employed for many years at the Saratoga County wastewater treatment plant in Mechanicville, New York. He was proud of his work to clean and protect the Hudson River. He married his wife, Catherine, Keefer in 1980, and together they raised two sons. One of his greatest joys was coaching the boys in baseball, soccer, and basketball. He loved being with his family, and adored his two grandchildren.

After retiring,Pat spent many hours as a volunteer in the community. He delivered meals on wheels, volunteered at the New York State Military Museum in Saratoga Springs, and came in weekly to read stories to children at Geyser Road School.

Patrick was predeceased by his parents, Walter and Miriam (McCormack) Finnegan, and two brothers, Walter and Dennis. He is survived by his wife, Catherine, sons, Michael (Elizabeth) and Daniel ( Julia), grandchildren Penelope and Oliver, a brother, John, and nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Patrick's life will be held on Friday, October 25, 2024 at 2 PM at the First Reformed Church of West Glenville, 2172 West Glenville Rd., Amsterdam, New York, follow by burial in West Glenville cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, it would please Pat if people made a contribution to their local fire department.