Patrick Edward "Pat" Lanclos

Patrick (Pat) Edward Lanclos, lovingly known as "Patty" and "Patty Cakes" too many and "Paw Paw Pat" to his cherished granddaughter, passed peacefully into eternal rest on February 20, 2026, at the age of 82.

Pat's life was one marked by courage, devotion, quiet strength, and deep love for family and friends. He was a man who carried both the scars of sacrifice and the gentleness of a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

He is survived by his beloved partner and wife of 35 years, Elie Robin Kahn, with whom he shared a beautiful life filled with travel, companionship, and adventure. Together, often accompanied by their loyal dogs Tucker and Reuben, they explored the United States, Europe, and beyond-making treasured memories in every place they visited.

Pat was a proud and loving father to his son, Michael David Lanclos (Elizabeth), and a deeply devoted grandfather to Hannah, who brought him immeasurable joy. Being called "Paw Paw Pat" was one of his greatest honors. He is also survived by his sister, Beverly Thomas of Little Rock, Arkansas; his brother, Danny Lanclos of North Carolina; and a host of nieces and nephews who affectionately knew him as "Uncle Pat."

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Ann Kirkpatrick Thompson (2014); his father, George Edward Armand (1964); his stepfather, Alexander Bienvenu Lanclos (2009); his brother, William (Bill) Lanclos (1976); and Lova V'Ann Russell (1996). Though he experienced the sorrow of loss throughout his life, he remained steadfast in faith and resilient in spirit.

Pat served his country with extraordinary distinction in the United States Navy as a diver with the Underwater Demolitions Team (UDT), the courageous forerunner of today's Navy SEALs. During multiple tours in Vietnam, he demonstrated uncommon bravery and selfless devotion to his fellow servicemen. He was twice wounded in combat and awarded the Purple Heart with a Gold Star. For courage under enemy fire, he received the Bronze Star for Valor. For acts of heroism at great personal risk outside of combat, he was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal among many other awards, decorations and accolades. These honors speak to his courage-but those who knew him best understood that his quiet humility spoke louder than any medal.

One of his proudest achievements as a Navy diver came not in combat, but in a moment that changed the world. On July 24, 1969, following the historic mission of Apollo 11-the NASA mission that placed the first man on the moon-Pat was among the first divers in the Pacific Ocean to reach the space capsule after splashdown. He helped stabilize the capsule in open water and assist the crew, playing an unforgettable part in one of humanity's greatest accomplishments. For Pat, it was both a professional honor and a lifelong point of quiet pride.

Following a medical retirement from the Navy, Pat pursued his education with the same determination that marked his military service, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering from Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi. He went on to build a respected career as a Senior Systems Engineer with Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), where he eventually retired.

Though he had lived through the trials of war and the discipline of military life, Pat's heart was tender toward those he loved. He delighted in gatherings with family and friends, treasured time with nieces and nephews, and carried a warmth that earned him the love of many. His strength was steady, his loyalty unwavering, and his love enduring, especially for his wife, Elie.

The family will receive friends at Rose Funeral & Cremation – Mann on Tuesday, March 10th from 10:00am-12:00pm with a funeral service to start at 12:00pm. Following the funeral service family and friends will process to East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery (2200 E Governor John Sevier Hwy) for a 2:00pm graveside service with full military honors, an enduring tribute to a life of service and sacrifice. Pallbearers will be: Joey Champion, Adam Cresswell, Claude Crocker, Gino LaMarca, Mike Lanclos and Steve Reynolds. The family encourages everyone to wear purple, which is Pat's favorite color. In lieu of flowers please plant a tree or make a memorial to St. Jude Children's Hospital www.stjude.org/.

While we mourn his passing, we give thanks for the gift of his life. His courage protected others. His love strengthened his family. His legacy lives on in the stories we tell, the values he instilled, and the quiet example of humility and honor he set before us.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."