John Patrick(Pat) Finnerty
July 27, 1942-May 28, 2012
Passed away peacefully on Monday, May 28th 2012 in Campbell River at the age of 69.
Pat was born in Paddockwood, Saskatchewan, moving to Victoria, BC at the age of seven, and then later to Saratoga Beach as a teenager. Even from a young age, Pat was well-known for his ambitious and charismatic personality, leaving a strong impression with everyone who knew him.
He held numerous jobs over the years, from working in a mine and as a sales rep in automotive and industrial supply to flying his beloved Cessna (C-FUPP), supplying freight up and down the Northeast Coast of Vancouver Island, from Cortes Island to Sullivan Bay.
It was during those flying years that he met his wife Lynn, and together they owned and operated Sullivan Bay Marine Resort off Broughton Island for over 30 years. There, he perfected his “gift of gab,” hosting vacationing yacht owners from all over the world.
One of Pat’s many passions in life was boating; so it was only natural that he started Palyn Water Taxi, an active boat charter business servicing fish farms and the logging industry in the Broughton Archipelago.
Outside his business life, Pat’s softer side came through. He had an uncanny connection with animals, from crazy cockatiels to orphan seal pups. He had a soft spot for those who were willing to help themselves. He shared many years and adventures with his brother Dale’s children (Brent, Jolean, and Darrin), and cherished the love of his daughter Trish and granddaughter Ivy.
Pat has also been a Cortes Island local for over 40 years. And although he retired to live in Campbell River, he continued to enjoy summers at his Cortes property with family and friends.
His larger than life personality will leave an equally large void in the lives of those who loved and tolerated him. He leaves behind his wife Lynn, daughter Trish and granddaughter Ivy. His mother Dorothy Finnerty, brother Dale (Judy) Finnerty, sister Brenda (Peter) Brophy and nieces and nephews.
He flew by the seat of his pants. When he saw opportunities he took them. He never took no for an answer but was good at giving it and FOX news will have one less viewer.
A service will be held at Sutton’s Funeral Home in Campbell River, 502 South Dogwood Street, Campbell River, BC, on Saturday, June 9th, 2012 at 11:00am. Celebration of Life to follow at 420 Elizabeth Road.
“Whatever blows your hair back”
We will miss you
Messages of condolence for the family may be left at www.suttonsfuneralhome.com