Joseph Patrick “Pat” Young, age 65, of Venice, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 5, 2025. Pat was born on January 13, 1960, the sixth child of Tom and Gerry Young.

From the very beginning, Pat was quiet, shy, and funny. One sweet memory that comes to mind is when he was about five or six years old. I was in my bedroom with the windows open (before A/C) and heard him outside, talking very softly: “Where are you, baby lizards? I’m looking for you.” I asked, “What are you doing?” He answered, “I’m hunting for baby lizards.” “Why? What for?” I asked. He said, “I’ll show you.” Just then, he caught two baby lizards and proudly said, “Look!” Pat had put them on his ears like earrings and thought it was the funniest thing in the world—and it was! We still laugh about that to this day.

His sense of humor never left him. He always had a joke or a funny story to tell, and we always loved hearing them. As many know, Pat was helpful, patient, and generous with his time and talents, though he rarely asked for help himself.

What some may not know, however, is how creative and skilled he was as a carpenter. He loved making and fixing things and was always working on a project in his garage.  Another thing to share about Pat was how much pride he took in caring for his yard. I never knew one could have so many conversations about grass, rain, mulch, and fertilizer!

It’s very difficult to let go of someone so deeply loved. Pat is the first of all the siblings to pass on, and his loss has hit us very hard. This has been a humble reminder of our own mortality—and that, in the end, all that truly matters is the love we have for one another.

Someone once said, faith and fear both ask that you believe in something you can’t see. What you choose directs your life—and Pat chose faith. He was a devout Catholic, a devoted son, and a cherished baby brother. He was a good friend to everyone who knew him and will be greatly missed. I like to think of him being greeted by his mom and dad, and his best friend, Tim. Our loss is their gain.

So until we meet again, sweet brother—dear Lord, let eternal rest be granted unto him, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

A memorial service to celebrate Pat’s life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Epiphany Cathedral Church, 310 Sarasota St., Venice, FL 34285.

Memorial contributions in Pat’s memory are suggested to any animal shelter, humane society, or rescue organization of your choosing, as Pat dearly loved animals. His beloved and energetic canine, Frannie, and his squawking bird, Gabby (so appropriately named), will miss him terribly.