Patrick T. Keilch's Obituary
Patrick T. Keilch died peacefully at home in Berkeley, in the loving care of his family, on September 12, 2016. His death was expected, but was still a shock for his family, friends and associates. He was born in La Jolla, CA on October 8, 1948 to his loving parents, Virginia and “Jack” Keilch. His memories of growing up in San Diego were dear to him.
His father was a retired Lt. Commander in the Navy, having served in WWII. Jack was also a scout for the Chicago White Sox and taught that love of baseball to Patrick and the family. Virginia was also instrumental in their family church, various social groups and volunteer activities. They taught their children to be politically progressive and to work for justice for all people. Patrick was a happy child, a natural entertainer and made friends easily. He learned to work hard and was a natural athlete, skilled at many sports and had a love of the ocean.
After graduating from Pt. Loma High in 1966, he attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he graduated with a BA in History. Following graduation, he joined the City of Berkeley, working as a recreation aide at Willard Park. From that position, he rose up in the government to become a park supervisor, supervisor of student work force, energy officer and finally the Deputy Director of Public Works. He retired in 2004 after working 33 years for the City. As part of the department, he used his great intellect, statesmanship, personality, excellent writing/speaking skills and years of various city connections to make many major improvements in the community. With others, Patrick started a workers union; was instrumental in establishing the first curbside recycling program in the nation; changed all city diesel vehicles to bio-diesel; established a natural gas station for alternative fuels; worked on the recovery of the city affected by the Oakland/Berkeley Fire. He was often called at 2am to mitigate some disaster and contact the necessary city workers – as he was the top official who lived in Berkeley, the city he loved so much.
Patrick met the love of his life, his wife Linda while they were both enrolled at UCB. They raised their family of three, teaching them to be peace loving and fair minded. They traveled, and enjoyed being with their families. Patrick is survived by his children: Marlena, her husband Brad Johnson, and their two children Brayden and Avery; Sabrina and her husband Adrian Morse; and Cassidy Keilch. Also included are his brother John and sister Kathleen and their families.
Family and friends are invited to a “Celebration of Life” this Saturday, Sept. 24 at 2pm – St. John’s Church, 2727 College Ave., Berkeley. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations for a “memorial” bench for Patrick at the Berkeley Marina.
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