Daniel "Pat" Colburn

Daniel Patrick "Pat" Colburn died peacefully on December 3rd, 2025, in his home, surrounded by family.

Pat is survived by his wife, Sharon Ann Colburn; daughter, Libby Whittier, son-in-law Stephen Whittier, and their two children, Mamie and Stuart; daughter, Amy Robinson, son-in-law Rick Robinson, and their three children, Danny, Joey and Katie Ann; and his brother-in-law, Everett "Joco" O'Connor, sister-in-law Lorna O'Connor, and their children, Shea and Cam.

Born in Bangor, Maine, on July 8, 1943, Pat was the only son of Henry and Margaret Colburn. He spent his childhood and young adulthood in Maine before moving to Manchester, New Hampshire, to attend Saint Anselm College. He graduated in 1965 with a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and Philosophy, achieving a Masters and Certificate in Advanced Studies thereafter. Pat went on to spend 37 years as a Mathematics Teacher and Department Chair in Darien, Connecticut. His love for teaching and learning was evident in the way he listened to and spoke with his students and everyone he knew.

In May, 1965, Pat enlisted in the Maine Air National Guard. Over the course of Pat's tenure, he rose to the rank of Colonel and received numerous awards and decorations, including the New York State Military Commendation Medal and the New York State Long and Faithful Service Award (30 Years). Pat was a proud veteran. After serving in the Air Force, he was a regular at the New London Commissary. He could usually be spotted in his favorite camo Air Force Boonie hat.

On August 19th, 1967, Pat married his loving wife, Sharon Ann O'Connor. They were married 58 years, making many homes together across Connecticut, and most importantly, raising their two daughters, Libby and Amy, together. Pat cherished his two girls. Their happiness was his happiness. In 2005, Pat and Sharon settled at 14 Ridge Road, Groton Long Point, and resided there until his death. They loved to watch the seasons pass outside their front window but loved it even more when summer arrived along with their five grandchildren. Stuart, Danny, Mamie, Joey and Katie spent many wonderful summers with their grandparents in GLP. They return each year, a testament to the beautiful life Pat and Sharon created and shared with their devoted grandchildren.

Outside of his work, family and friends, Pat loved to tend to his garden. He was attentive to everything he grew and had a natural gift for that which brought him so much joy. We can be sure that Pat is now at peace as he enjoys a warm summer day out in the garden, with blue skies and a breeze, watching over those missing him tremendously.

Pat's family will receive relatives and friends Thursday, December 18th from 4-6 PM at the Mystic Funeral Home located on Route 1 in Mystic. A funeral mass will be celebrated the following day on Friday at 10 AM at St. Patrick Church, 32 East Main St, Mystic. His burial will follow the mass with military honors at the Elm Grove Cemetery on Route 27, Mystic.