Patrick Daniel McNelis III

Patrick Daniel McNelis III, of Washington, D.C., passed away Dec. 26 at the age of 83 after a long struggle with Parkinson's disease.

The son of Patrick Daniel Jr. and Mary Cahalan McNelis, Pat was born on Feb. 8, 1940, in Luzerne County, Pa. He grew up in Scranton, Pa., and attended the University of Scranton; he then earned a master's degree in international relations and a J.D. at Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. He loved Washington and lived there for the rest of his life. For most of his legal career, Pat worked at the Internal Revenue Service, where he specialized in pension compliance. He was a devout Catholic who supported many ministries of the church and was also active in Catholic LGBTQ organizations. In retirement, he volunteered at the DC Central Kitchen and with a variety of progressive causes.

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents. His brother, Michael McNelis, survives him, as do many cousins. His cousin, Tom Scherer, was of special help to him during the final years of his life. Special thanks to Victoria and Jennifer of HomeHearts HomeCare.

A private graveside service will be held in Scranton. Gifts in his memory may be made to the Catholic Medical Mission Board or Catholic Charities.