Patrick W. Gaffney

Patrick William Gaffney, age 91, passed into eternity on December 13, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born November 13, 1934, to the late William and Adele (Schmitz) Gaffney in Fond du Lac, WI. He grew up in Fond du Lac and graduated from Goodrich High School in 1953. He served two years in the National Guard then served in the Navy for 4 years. Pat continued his life of service in the Navy Reserves as well as assisting on the Police Boat for Neenah.

At age 22, Pat set himself up for a return visit to see a young Mary Jo Vander Hyden and the two became pen pals. Those letters turned into a love story that spanned the next 66 years! The couple married in 1959 and began their family. They raised their family in various locations in the Fox Valley, but their true home was the home on Lakeshore Drive in Menasha/Fox Crossing.

Pat’s biggest joy in life outside of his family was riding his BMW motorcycle! He also enjoyed music of all kinds but was especially fond of jazz. Their home was always filled with the sounds of music. In his younger years, he enjoyed photography, as well as bicycling, and camping. More recently he simply enjoyed spending time with his family and meeting new people and sharing stories. He was always the curious one and his favorite hobby was truly engaging “strangers” in conversation…by the time his conversation had ended, he had a new friend. Checking out small “hole in the wall” restaurants were also part of his repertoire! He appreciated and enjoyed good food and of course the fellowship that often went with it!

Pat was a lifelong learner. He read voraciously and took courses at Lawrence University. He enjoyed history and enjoyed telling his own history. He was passionate about attending EAA every year, and it was definitely a place where he would use his gift of gab. He was a master storyteller-and shared his experiences with family. He was interesting and always interest-ED! His favorite question was “Who Are You?” which always made his family laugh. Those who knew Pat truly knew the depth of his humor and the quality therein. Family was truly everything to Pat, and he was always protecting those he loved.

Pat is survived by his wife of 66 years, Mary Jo, his children: Steve (Cathy) Gaffney, Kathleen (Jeff) Schneider, Mary M. (Mickey) Janssen, Bill (Lisa) Gaffney, Molly (Aric) Hanseter; grandchildren: Nolan (Bayly), Ryan (fiancé Eleni), Emily (Brenton), Daniel, David (Erin), Patrick, Christopher, Nicholas (Hannah), Matthew (Kelsey), James, Marlowe, Amelia; great grandchildren: Maddie, Sydney, Everett, Hazel, Mia, Vivian, Winona, Ava and one more soon to make an appearance. In addition, he is survived by his special cousin Marsha and other relatives and friends.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, son Daniel, and daughter-in-law Patti.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday December 18, 2025, at 11:00am, at St Patrick Catholic Community, 324 Nicolet Blvd, Menasha. Friends and family may gather at the church from 10:00am until mass begins.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wisconsin Honor Flight in Pat’s memory.

Pat’s family would like to thank the Compassus nurses and caregivers especially Savannah who were so faithful in “keeping him in line.”