Patrick Michael Heffernan

In loving memory of Patrick Michael Heffernan, who departed this earth on December 29, 2023, surrounded by his siblings after a tragic Christmas Eve automobile accident.

Patrick was a remarkable person with a passion for the mechanical and technical. He loved automobiles and airplanes and had an uncanny ability to identify commercial planes by the sound of their engines. Pat also had an artistic flare, building furniture and creating pottery. From keeping a beat on his glitter blue drum kit to teaching his siblings how to whistle like a piccolo Pete, Patrick shared his talent and positivity with everyone around him.

Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Patrick's parents, sister and brother left their family and home country when he was a baby. Together with his older sibling by just 10 months, the Canadian brothers played a key role at Children's Hospital Los Angeles in the research and successful treatment of the genetic condition, phenylketonuria, or PKU. The research on the boys by Dr. Richard Koch, Dr. Robert Guthrie and others was an impetus for a law requiring the addition of PKU screening to the "heel prick test" for newborns.

The family later moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, where Patrick graduated from Mills High School in Millbrae, California, class of 1980, and never missed a car or air show. Patrick pursued a diverse career holding several professional credentials in automotive technology, detail and refinishing and was a credentialed journeyman painter with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. His last role was in warehousing at a Bay Area distribution center where his dedication and attention to detail earned him an award for outstanding service.

Beyond his professional achievements, Patrick was an avid Bay Area sports fan, with a particular passion for hockey and the San Jose Sharks. Patrick loved to give back, especially when it came to his Special Olympian big brother whose basketball team he coached and helped get to the Nor Cal Special Olympics Summer Games. In Patrick's memory, tribute donations can be made to support this cherished organization at SpecialOlympics.org.

Patrick leaves behind his siblings Kathie, David, Nancy and Shawn, his nieces Kimberly, Laura, Goddaughter Emily, and Meghan, nephew Stephen, extended family in Canada and many friends in the East Bay. Patrick's uplifting spirit and unwavering positivity will forever remain a precious gift to his family and all who knew him.