

Patrick always said that when his time came, he just wanted to be remembered as a good man. But tell that to the people who knew him well, who worked with him, his friends, family, or those who briefly had the opportunity to cross paths with him. They will say he was a great man, authentic, compassionate, caring, loving, loyal, always happy, passionate, makes us laugh, a genius, an innovator, a true leader, and an honest man.
Patrick loved adventure. After obtaining a college degree in philosophy, he found a way to travel the world and started working as a crew member for a major international carrier. There was not one part of the world that Patrick did not visit.
In 1987, Patrick moved into a new adventure and began his long career with the Federal Government. As an Inspector for the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), he became one of the most prolific inspectors in Immigration law and soon was promoted to a supervisory position. In Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Patrick continued his career and worked as CBP Passenger Service Manager and Deputy Chief. Throughout his almost 32 -year career, Patrick always sought ways to improve the operation. As all great leaders should be, Patrick served as a true ambassador and a protector of our country and the mission of CBP.
Patrick developed many passions in his life. He loved history, antiques, home restoration, classic cars, music, art, playing guitar and some good blues songs, drinking a good pale ale or a good wine, and good food. He always found an interesting and special way of enjoying life every day. As Patrick would always said, he was easily satisfied with only the best. One of Patrick's favorite quotes was "don’t count the days, make the days count. “ As we celebrate Patrick’s life, a dear friend has shared with me the following:
“If ever there is a tomorrow when we’re not together...there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. If you ever live to be a hundred, I want to live a hundred minus one day, so I never have to live without you." -from Winnie the Pooh I feel blessed that I was able to share a lifetime with Patrick.
Patrick -my hero, I will miss you forever.
Miguel J Mercado -
The Minter Family
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