BRICK – Members of the township’s Department of Public Works, Municipal Utilities Authority, family and friends are mourning the loss of Patrick McElroy, a longtime municipal employee who died recently.
McElroy passed away suddenly at the age of 61, surrounded by his family according to his obituary. He was born on January 28, 1964 in West Orange, and lived there until the age of 10. He then moved with his family to Livingston where he graduated from Livingston High School.
He shared a loving marriage of 30 years with his beloved wife, Kathy. Together, they raised two their children, Molly and Patrick.
His obituary noted that McElroy “felt especially honored to be godfather to nephews Michael McElroy, and Phalen Hazel, and his niece Maggie Leach. All of them found in him a loving uncle who was always ready with a word of encouragement and a warm embrace.”
Professionally, he dedicated many years of service to the Brick Township Municipal Utilities Authority from 1994 to 2003 and continued his commitment to the community at the Brick Township Department of Public Works until his death.
Superintendent of Public Works Stephen Krakovsky told The Brick Times, “Pat was a long-time, dedicated employee for the Township of Brick. Throughout his career with the Township, Pat served the residents of Brick as a truck driver for the Department of Public Works.”
“Pat took great pride in his route, making sure the residents have what they need on a daily basis. He developed a fan base of residents, many of whom called to express condolences when they heard about his passing,” Krakovsky added.
Krakovsky described McElroy as “a devoted family man and one of the hardest workers we’ve ever had. He looked out for his work colleagues and was a great mentor to the younger drivers. His work ethic was second to none.”
The DPW superintendent went on to say that McElroy was “a quiet, humble man who cherished his family. He will be greatly missed and always remembered by his Brick Township family.”
McElroy was also privileged to work alongside his closest and dearest friend, Jim Kathenes, at Drum Point Marina in the township for nearly four decades. It was said to be his second home away from home and he cherished every minute he was there.
He was also described as loving being close to the water. Those who knew said his greatest love, beyond his family, was his home. His backyard was his haven, a place where he found joy in the simple pleasures of life.
He was at peace at home be it mowing the lawn, playing a game of cornhole with his grandchildren, throwing the ball with his faithful dog Maple, flipping burgers on the grill or enjoying the laughter and stories shared during family gatherings.
McElroy was also said to have had a great sense of humor. He was known as a jokester and loved making others laugh.
