Joseph Patrick “Pat” English, 88, of Vincennes, IN, passed away May 12, 2018, at Good Samaritan Hospital.
Pat was born January 23, 1930, in Minneapolis, MN, to Don and Eileen (Clark) English. The family moved to De Smet, SD, in 1941. After graduating from high school, Pat served in the U.S. Army with the 2nd Infantry Division, achieving the rank of sergeant. He fought in Korea during the Korean War. After being honorably discharged, he married Sharon Gehm Sept. 4, 1952.
They lived in Huron, SD, where their 6 children were born, until 1969, when the family moved to Vincennes, IN. Pat worked as a painting/wallcovering contractor for over 40 years, then as a realtor until his retirement.
A VFW member, Pat was on the 3rd Southern Indiana Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., in 2015. This once-in-a-lifetime trip takes military veterans to visit the memorials dedicated to their sacrifices. A lifelong model airplane builder and flyer, he was a member of the local flying club for many years. While living in South Dakota, Pat enjoyed pheasant hunting and fishing. He loved traveling, classical music, and was an avid reader; but nothing gave him more happiness and pride than his family. Pat’s love and devotion to his wife Sharon was an inspiration for all who know the family. He’ll be fondly remembered for his clever sense of humor, integrity, and strong work ethic.
Pat is survived by his wife of 65 years, Sharon English of Vincennes; his children, Mike English (Janice), of Princeton, IL, Shari Sherman (Byron), of Newburgh, IN, Cathy English of Seattle, WA, Jean Dopher (Ken), of Escondido, CA, Bob English of Vincennes, IN, and Diane English (Pat Bonfils), of Indianapolis, IN; brother, Don English (Cecilia), of Greenville, NC; brother-in-law, Dick Seib of Evansville, IN; grandchildren, Mandi Schooler, Jaclyn Falkenstein, Caitlin Dopher, Michael Dopher, and Triston English; 6 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, John “Jack” English; and sisters, Mary Catherine English and Sally Seib.
Pat was a member of St. John Catholic Church (now St. Francis Xavier Parish). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated May 29 at 10 a.m. at St. John’s. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Friends may visit with Pat’s family from 4 to 8 p.m. on May 28 at Goodwin Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to St. John Catholic Church or your charity of choice. Online condolences may be sent to the family through goodwinfamilyfh.com.