Obituary of Michael Patashnick

My beloved husband and best friend, Michael Patashnick, 74, died peacefully in his sleep on Monday, January 31, 2022 at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Utica. Michael was born in Manhattan on January 9, 1948 and was the son of the late Nathan and Constance (Zigman) Patashnick. He grew up in NYC and Chester, NY and graduated as Valedictorian of Chester High School. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from SUNY College at Geneseo. He went on to earn his Master’s Degree in Science from Purdue University. Then he continued his studies pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Psychology from Purdue, lacking only submission of his dissertation for completion. While at Purdue, he was inducted into the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. He loved learning, had an inquisitive mind, and was a student of life. Michael’s passion for education led him to several career choices and many opportunities to help children and adults alike. His first position was as an elementary school teacher in Vermont. He was an assistant professor at Lafayette College, PA teaching education classes for two years. He then worked as a behavioral psychologist for three years. He worked for Oneida County BOCES as a school psychologist to help struggling students. Michael also tutored many children in Math, Science, French, History and Physics and he had taught adults to read. He volunteered at the prison and taught Psychology to the inmates. He was a patient and creative teacher. He was curious about space, history, cooking, music, oil painting, psychology and all sciences and was an avid reader. In his younger years, he was a natural athlete. He was an outstanding sprinter, soccer and basketball player and he excelled at racquetball. He coached AYSO soccer for our daughter’s team where he instilled confidence, team spirit, and love of the sport. He was an example of kindness, tolerance and positivity. But Michael’s greatest love was for his family. He was completely devoted to me, Kathleen O’Connor Patashnick, his beloved wife of 44 years. We were married on July 16, 1977 and were blessed with a loving union. Together we shared many memories and lifted each other up in times of tribulation. We were best friends, soul mates, and devoted partners. Our precious daughter, Johanna, caused Michael’s eyes to sparkle which only increased after her marriage to Kevin Lloyd. Michael also loved and adored his sister, Sandy Collins and her husband, Jim, along with their children and grandchildren. He developed close relationships with all of his family members and his life touched many relatives and friends. Michael was a kind, gentle soul who loved life and wanted to live forever. He gave love, attention and support to all he knew. He lived his life to the fullest. And now, grief is the price we pay for having loved him so well. We will miss you greatly, my love. Family and friends are invited to call at Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome on Saturday, February 26th from 2 to 4pm. Following the calling hours, there will be a Celebration of Life service at 4pm. In Michael’s honor, you may wear any color you wish, but red was his favorite. You may light a candle, send a message of sympathy, and read the obituary at www.nunnandharper.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to National Tay-Sachs and Allied Diseases Association at http://weblink.donorperfect.com/MichaelPatashnick