Patrick Ray Vadnais

Bellingham, WA - Patrick Ray Vadnais, 79, passed away on February 26, 2026, in Bellingham, Washington. He was born on March 17, 1946, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

After graduating high school, Patrick was drafted into the United States Army and served with distinction in the Vietnam War as part of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, also known as the Blackhorse Regiment.

Patrick built a remarkable career as an Operating Engineer, working on projects across the United States, including the iconic Alaska pipeline project. Later in his career, he served as a business agent for Operating Engineers Local 3. His dedication to his work and his colleagues left a lasting impact on those who worked alongside him.

Patrick's larger-than-life personality made him unforgettable to all who knew him. He had a gift for teasing and making people laugh with his jokes and old sayings. A fighter by nature, Patrick faced life's challenges head-on and fought a courageous battle with lung cancer for over two years after his diagnosis.

In addition to his professional accomplishments and personal resilience, Patrick found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved reading and watching westerns, deep-sea fishing, golfing, and occasionally trying his luck at gambling. One of his greatest joys was attending his grandchildren's events-especially their sports games-where he could often be found cheering from the bleachers with his padded chair (and sometimes offering spirited feedback to referees).

Patrick is survived by his beloved wife of many years, Carolyn Sue Vadnais; his sister Marjorie Holland; his children Angela (Brett) Cunningham, Clinton (Cheryl) Vadnais, and John (Emma) Vadnais; and eight cherished grandchildren: Matthew McConville, Victoria (Elisha) Mookie, Aaron Vadnais, Andrew Vadnais, Shannon McConville, Ethan Vadnais, Lia Vadnais, and Logan McConville. He was predeceased by his mother Ruth Garrett and brothers Jerry Vadnais, Mike Vadnais (his fraternal twin), and Jack Vadnais.

Patrick's faith was an integral part of who he was. He loved the Lord deeply and drew strength from that love throughout his life. His legacy lives on through the countless memories shared by those who knew him.

A small memorial service will be planned at a later date to honor Patrick's life.

May Patrick Ray Vadnais be remembered for the laughter he brought to others' lives and the love he shared with family and friends.