Ian Patrick Griggs

Ian Patrick “Paddy” Griggs, 82, of Walnut Creek, California, passed away unexpectedly on February 25th, 2025, in Hilo, Hawaii. He is survived by his wife, Heather; children, Beverley, Martin, Ryan, and Gary; and grandchildren, Karena, Anna, and Katherine Landler, and Amber Griggs.

One of four children, he was born in South Africa where he completed his Bachelor of Commerce degree and started work as an accountant. In 1965, he married his childhood sweetheart, Heather. Intending to settle down in South Africa, they first decided to take a trip around the world with 2-year-old, Beverley. This trip landed them in San Francisco where Paddy continued work with his accounting firm. He would work with them his entire career, through mergers and name changes, finally retiring as a partner from Deloitte in 2000.

Once in the US, Paddy and Heather ended up staying for the long haul. Marty was born in Oakland and shortly thereafter the family moved to Lafayette. Business opportunities brought about a temporary relocation to Anchorage, Alaska, and eventually a permanent move to Honolulu, Hawaii, where Ryan and Gary were born.

Paddy would spend his next 40 years in Honolulu. He enjoyed all the islands had to offer; sun, sea, mountains, friends, and the spirit of Aloha that Paddy adopted as his own. He coached his children’s soccer teams and played soccer into his 50’s. He enjoyed golfing, sailing, boogie boarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking. Photography of birds and animals was his passion.

In Hawaii, Paddy was active in the community and spent much time with Rotary and the Consuelo Foundation. He was a fixture in Rotary projects and especially enjoyed the overseas service trips. When on site, he worked hard, and it was often joked that the project was not done until he bled. He felt it was a privilege to be on the Consuelo Foundation board and wholeheartedly supported their mission in the Philippines and Hawaii.

Finally, when Paddy retired, the couple moved back to the Bay Area and continued to travel. For their almost 60 years of marriage, travel remained a constant. There was always a trip on the horizon.

Paddy loved and cherished people. His positive attitude and smile were infectious. He cared deeply for his family and friends and made all feel welcome. You could always count on Paddy to lend a helping hand. He did everything with gusto and was constantly singing or listening to music. He was always up for a party and made the most of the opportunities that life presented.

We are all devastated by our beloved Paddy’s unexpected passing. However, we are grateful for all the memories and how much richer he made our lives for the time he was with us. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Little Children of the Philippines, Little Children of the Philippines - Little Children of the World.

Fond Aloha Paddy (Pat, Dad, Papa)