Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014

Subject: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Janie
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 08:50 AM

This thread started to alert mudcat members of the critical state of Catspaw49's health. Pat Patterson died on June 20, 2014. KT shared the sad news in post 173 of this thread. So many have already expressed condolences here that it seems suitable to keep it as the obit thread also. Please, if you're of a mind, take a moment to step into the Mudcat Tavern to raise a glass (and no doubt some ruckus) in 'Spaw's name. --mudelf

---

Pat "Catspaw" Patterson
Died 20 June 2014

Photo by Bill Day

---

Not everyone opens birthday threads or Jane's Rainbow, so I'm starting this. Our Spawser is back in the hospital. Don't have any details other than he is in ICU and on a vent.   He posted the following a few weeks ago, and I spoke with him not long afterwards. He has been on a real roller coaster ride.



Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: catspaw49 - PM
Date: 24 May 14 - 09:46 AM

So...............Whatever you can cross, keep crossed.

This is the end of another chemo week and that has always been my lowest point. Made changes in daily meds and diet to better work the balance between the CHF, Intestinal thickening, COD, and the MDS. Today (and this week) I feel better than I have in a couple of years.....and even before the MDS. I look better, have a lot more energy, less O2 demand..went out and ran around yesterday PM and didn't even pack any along....Hard to tell what happens next.

We'll see what the numbers do over the next couple of weeks and know more then. Balancing this crap is a hell of a juggling act and about half of it I know as much about what to do as the Docs. We upped the Lasix but with the water being the best source for stool softeners and the thickening of the intestinal walls, the added Lasix took that water away as well. So I modified my diet. Then I modified the Lasix dosage (okayed by the my cardio guy) to some alternate day dosage levels and things are moving, so to speak.LOL Better yet, there seems to be no fluid at all around my heart....This is serious progress.

Then add that the current chemo has a strong fatigue factor and so is then accompanied by a steroid has obviously helped. I really wanna' see the numbers now....Keep 'em all crossed Folks.

I know, and you should too so there's no confusion, MDS is not curable but I going to buy all the time with Karen I can. While this past year has been great together, there has been far too many 10 day periods of chemo misery and many days spent low in numbers before I can get blood. Nobody my age beats this. Not Nora Ephrom, not Carl Sagan, and not me. But June the 8th is my birthday and my wish is for one more year and especially one where I feel like I do now. Next year I'll repeat that and see how long we can do it!

Sorry, I'm still pissed over the 'Cat but that's just because I do really miss what it once was. Time passes, things change, and as Tom Wolfe wrote, you can't go home again. I'll get over it.......

Hugs once again for the crew here and follow Nigel's good advice: Set the sails...splice the mainbrace...plot a course for the sun.


Spaw

Here's hoping fervently that good thoughts and intentions, prayers, mojo, loud farts in his honor, anything we can offer do help him buy that more time with Karen.

Karen, wrapping you up in the same mojo.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: maeve
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 08:58 AM

Thanks, Janie... Always on my mind, the two of them.

Maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 09:19 AM

sending more good wishes & love to spaw & Karen & their family

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,Karen
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 11:47 AM

Thanks Janie for starting this thread. Pat had a sigmoid colectomy last Thursday. He was very week going into the surgery and the ICU staff did a lot of hard work to get him ready. He came through the surgery like a champ, but they have been struggling to keep his BP up. He has a lot of edema that they can't control until the BP is stable. Add to that a bad gallbladder which is elevating his bilirubin and he is too fragile right now to do anything about it. He did try to open his eyes when I spoke to him this morning. I still have hope he will turn this around. He's gotten really good at that over the years. I will pop in to update you. Thanks for the thoughts and prayers...spaw's girl

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: maeve
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 11:49 AM

Thank you very much for your post, Karen. You have thoughts, prayers, and lots of hope streaming out on your behalf.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Bill D
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 11:56 AM

Pat knows I don't pray, but oh, the good thoughts winging your way! I cherish the memory of actually meeting you all during relatively 'good' times a few years ago.

Pat knows also, as do we all, that 'it is what it is', although he has been remarkable at heading off stuff and amazing us all!

I'm glad he has you, Karen...

take care

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Ebbie
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 11:56 AM

"You have thoughts, prayers, and lots of hope streaming out on your behalf."

And from here too. We'll surround him, steep him in it.

Keep on keeping on, Spaw.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 12:09 PM

"Spaw needs all mojo we can muster"

Pat, I ain't wearing my glasses, but I think folks want to put some mustard on your mojo. Watch out, buddy. And hey, you beat it before and you'll beat it again. Hang tough.

BM

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: bbc
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 12:12 PM

Thanks for starting this thread, Janie, & giving us the background &, Karen, thanks for bringing us up-to-date. I had seen a bit of this on Facebook, after wondering why Pat hadn't responded to posts on his birthday thread. Karen, I hope you know how highly regarded you & your family are by this community. Pat is close to our hearts, particularly those of us who've been around since near the beginning of Mudcat & still cherish those earlier times of good fellowship! Sending my prayers & love your way! Love you, Spaw!

Beebs

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Janie
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 12:34 PM

Mojo matters to Spaw and to Karen. Whether one believes in angels, understands angels as metaphor, or distains anything that mentions angels, knowing others care matters. Spaw and Karen have made clear through the years it matters to them.

Let's keep it coming.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 01:05 PM

What Bill D said. Passionately wishing for the best outcome possible.

Maggie

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: gnu
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 01:49 PM

I'll echo all of the above and, well, I gotta say it, I'll add wet cheeks. I am sure Spaw means at least that to all who know and love him. That's a LOT of people. Tissue time here in the fly infested bog country of Kent County, NB.ca.

I know what he'd say if he read this post. After all, he's Spaw... and that alone makes me feel better. Thoughts and prayers to you, buddy, and to yours.

Karen... thanks.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: bassen
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 01:49 PM

Warm thoughts, good wishes, positive energy, whatever it takes, focused and beamed your way. God bedring, gamle ørn!

Bassen

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: fat B****rd
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 02:23 PM

Massive Mojo from sunny Dunfermline. Spaw,with many others here,has always been attentive to others needing some. Charlie.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: frogprince
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 03:54 PM

Please, don't let a heart that big be stopped any sooner than need be.
We'd miss the crazy laughs a whole lot, but Pat means a lot more than that to a bunch of us.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 04:22 PM

Sending love, hugs and good wishes on a sunny, peaceful day.

May all be safe and beloved.

Dani

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: jacqui.c
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 04:32 PM

Sending all good thoughts to Spaw and Karen. Not much more I can add to what has gone before.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: KT
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 04:55 PM

Love and prayers from here, too, for Karen and Spaw. And for all the good folks who are providing their expertise to help SPAW get through this one.
KT

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 05:29 PM

Massive amounts of mojo, white light, prayers, good thoughts...whatever I can throw in your direction, 'Spaw. And plenty for Karen, too. This all may be harder on her than it is on you. As you once told Tom about riding the elephant downhill, all you have to do is hang on.

Lots of love to both of you.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: olddude
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 05:53 PM

I love you spaw please not yet ok please

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: LilyFestre
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 06:12 PM

I love you too Spaw...sending love for your speedy recovery.

XOXO

Michelle

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: JennieG
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 06:32 PM

Echoing what has already been said, and sending more good thoughts from here too.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: SINSULL
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 06:39 PM

With you in spirit, Karen. Keep yourself healthy. Spaw, stay strong. I love you both.
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: billybob
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 06:56 PM

Just sending love to you Spaw and to Karen,

lighting a candle and thinking very positive thoughts to someone who has been so supportive on The Rainbow, so sending all that love( and more) back.

Wendy and Billy xxxxxxx

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 07:41 PM

LOOK with a capital F you old bastard, stay alive, it's only you keeps Mudcat safe for novice nuns.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Little Robyn
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 08:14 PM

Love and healing prayers from the other side of the world.
Robyn

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Bobert
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 08:17 PM

Fuck!!!

I can't leave this joint for a couple months without everyone falling apart???

Ya'll gotta stop it and get well...

Ya' hear???

B~

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: LadyJean
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 09:59 PM

Positive energy from Pittsburgh for what that's worth.

I've said for years it ought to be against the law to feed hospital food to sick people.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,MTed
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 10:00 PM

Holding you both in the light.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Rapparee
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 10:29 PM

Rocky Mountain mojo from Idaho. Gonna make craters outa them hills if necessary.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Bert
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 11:14 PM

Loads of mojo on its way, along with love and best wishes, and songs and howling at the moon and anything else that we can think of.

Get well soon ol' buddy.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Phil Cooper
Date: 14 Jun 14 - 11:26 PM

Hoping for the best of outcomes.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Neil D
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 12:32 AM

All god thoughts and hopes and wishes from a fellow Buckeye. Keep on fighting like 4th and one Spaw.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Joe Offer
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 12:45 AM

Pat, I want you to keep thinking of all of us who enjoy you so much....in spite of yourself. Hang in there.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Morticia
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 05:46 AM

Thinking of you Pat and you Karen xx

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: maeve
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 06:18 AM

Good morning, Pat and Karen. Watch for the sunrise...blue skies ahead.

Maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Janie
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 07:38 AM

Here's hoping Pat is a little improved today, and that you have been able to get a night's sleep, Karen.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Ebbie
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 11:41 AM

That is also my wish, Karen. Being a father is a large part of what Pat is, may the day be a turning point...

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: bbc
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 11:58 AM

Hoping this is a Happy Father's Day for Pat. You made it through your birthday & to this day, I hope. You're a great dad & are much loved!

Barbara

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,DonMeixner
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 12:50 PM

Jesus Pat, I can't add much to what has been said by the rest of your friends. Be easy in your soul my friend my best thoughts are on the way.

Don

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Janie
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 01:05 PM

Be easy in your soul my friend my best thoughts are on the way. Lovely Don. Wish I had thought to say that.

So often, whether in 3-D or on-line, people say nothing because they fear the words they offer aren't profound or sufficiently articulate. For the nearly all of us who have gone through hard times that are part and parcel of life but which make those hard times no less hard, we know how much "thinking of you" means.

Thinking of you, Pat and Karen.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: gnu
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 01:27 PM

Well said, Janie.

UP Spaw!*

*Something from Jane's Rainbow thread... a rallying cry, if you will.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,Pete from seven stars link
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 04:17 PM

Prayer and ups for spaw.........bless you both.          Pete.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Bonnie Shaljean
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 05:01 PM

Masses of mojo marching your way. Cover with ingredient of your choice and dive in.

Sending all my very best thoughts and wishes to you (Kendall too).

B x

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Megan L
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 05:17 PM

Pat, Karen and family a prayer from my Scottish homeland to you and yours.

May the strength of the mighty stag be yours
Strength to aid your recovery
May the tenacity of the highland pony
To pull you through this tough time
May the peace of the quiet moors
Be yours to rest in
May the laughing waters in the mountain burn
Lift your spirit
The stillness of a summers evening soothe you
And the Guid Man
Wha made it aw
Haud ye safe in his muckle loof.    (hold you safe in his large palm)

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,.gargoyle
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 05:27 PM

Crap - what depressing posts above... "peace of the quite moors" has you in a grave.

DUDE - Snap Out of It...there are a few more things you need to knead.

Dear Mr. Spaw,

Another baby ! ! ! Congradulations.

.....................................................

Get ON The Stick DUDE ! ! !

You have information, stories (real ones) regarding your family's American Experience.
Good Lord knows you can't type....request a sound recorder. And notepad with pencil.

As memories (even weird stuff) pop into your brain...record them.

There are some stories, that your parents told you as a child, about their parent's childhood. Realise, when YOU are gone...those stories entrusted to you, may be gone forever.

(Well, maybe why four different uncles married the same the aunt and all their daughters came out looking like the family beagle-dog...can go buried in the family photo album.)

LOOK, mentioning family album.
Have family members bring in stuff. You might only know 1 out of 10 photos. Have them write the information on the back...(stickies unstick and get lost)

You have been granted a unique opportunity in life and in technology. Dig deep.

Time is short.

Sincerly,
Gargoyle

You don't need to be a LafKat and publish a book...just DO IT ! This is a wake-up call to those of us over 70.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: bbc
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 06:12 PM

gargoyle, I knew you had a soft side. You were always kind to me.

bbc

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,DonMeixner
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 07:31 PM

Gargoyle,

I get it. You are right of course. Except that it is a point all of us should take. Dont take the memories with us. Write them down for others to know. Pat has the wildest and most vivid cast of characters and recollections and they should be shared for as long as possible. We all have a wacky Aunt or a limping Grand dad or a Father with a penchant for whiskey and gun powder.

Tell those stories. Write them down. Add them to list of tales we pass along.

Don

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Janie
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 08:18 PM

Hey Spawser, Lightning bugs rising up out of the grass just now by the hundreds down here on the NC Piedmont. Another half hour and the same will be happening around the hospital grounds there in Ohio. I imagine each flash as a beacon directed to you, as well as Karen and the boys, focusing love, light, strength and peace.

Bug love.

Love you.

Janie

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Amos
Date: 15 Jun 14 - 10:49 PM

Hell hath no fury like a well-mustered mojo. Here's a thunderbolt of light-vortex energies designed to rehabilitate your whole system down to the core and bring it back up to battery in nanoseconds, asshole!!

Heal, you jadrool broke-dick pussy, heal!

Love,


A

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Rapparee
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 12:37 AM

Heel! boy! Heal!!!! Stop trying to upstage Kendall and old dude and HEAL!!! you hear?

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Megan L
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 04:52 AM

Do not worry about gargoyle Gnu, you know where I was coming from and a bit about the scenery of my lovely island home.

In my mind the moors have nothing to do with death they are calm and peaceful a place my mind could go to. Even while sitting in a busy city hospital alone over 200 miles from home I could let my mind escape there for a few minutes to calm and find peace.

Anyone who has sat with an unconscious loved one in hospital know there are times of complete nothingness where time is only denoted by the buzz and beep of machines. There are also times where you are being bombarded with information or questions till your brain feels punch drunk. At those times we just need a few moments of peace to let us pull all the threads of our being together again to be able to go on.

Gargoyle if in times of trouble if you have family who can sit with you and help with all those things that need to be done then you are blessed do not spew your vitriol on those who have to find other ways to cope.

To Karen and Pat sorry if my prayer upset you that was never my intent.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: SINSULL
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 09:07 AM

Hope Karen has had some rest and Spaw some happy dreams. Garg's suggestions are not half bad. Something to plan for once he out of the hospital. Too bad he and Dude can't share a room...
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Rapparee
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 09:55 AM

Karen -- whisper in his ear that without his support OSU is going to lose ALL of the games they play this year. In every sport, including checkers and marbles. Wait, I'm sorry...OSU lost their marbles years ago. You can tell him I said that, too.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Amergin
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 10:00 AM

Well, fuck, Pat....you're not suppose to get sick! Get the hell out of that place, but not until after you've pinched a few bums...go home to Karen...she needs ya.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 10:48 AM

Now, now, children. No sniping in the waiting room. Go get a cup of coffee and calm down. We are all here to support Pat and Karen, and I have every faith that Pat can discern good intent, however it is delivered.

Hot sunny North Carolina morning, and I am sending off prayers for all for contentment, peace and light.

Dani

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,pete from seven stars link
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 02:23 PM

another prayer, another UP!.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,Frug
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 06:09 PM

Spaw you are an institution my man. Keep on keeping on. You have my best wihes and strongest vibes for a good outcome. Let the goodtimes roll!!

Frank

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 07:36 PM

Pat, I haven't prayed for years.. But I Bloody well will today!

Sending love to you and Karen, from your friend in OZ!

Cheers

Bugsy

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Bobert
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 08:47 PM

Okay... Here's the deal, Spawzer...

You get yer ass (and the rest of you) okay and this ol' hillbilly will drive (12 flippin' hours), stop a couple blocks from yer house and pick up a case of Iron City Beer and...

...you and I will sit in your back yard, drenk and scratch...

Oh, and tell a few lies...

Bobert

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 09:28 PM

Spaw, I've been away for a few days but have kept you in my thoughts and prayers. I will continue to do that while adding love and hugs.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Rapparee
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 09:31 PM

Time it right and I'll join you.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Janie
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 10:20 PM

That was a lovely poem, Megan. And Garg, your care and concern came through.

Spaw and Karen....just love and light. Blazing light thoroughly infused with care and concern. From all around this globe.

I ain't scratchin' nuttin' on Bobert, Spaw or Rap, but would love to sit back and listen to the lies.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Ebbie
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 10:45 PM

Bobert, I would imagine that Spaw won't be up for beer any time soon but set the date and a number of us will join you and Rapparree in your efforts while Spaw looks on yearningly. For the company, you know. (I've never tasted Iron City Beer- is it as bad as people say?)

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,DonMeixner
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 11:42 PM

Damn it Bob,

Here we are trying to get the lad well and you have to go and threaten him with Iron City Beer, the pale dry stale ale with the head on the bottom.

Getty him some decent brew, like Kohler or Rolling Rock.

Don

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Janie
Date: 16 Jun 14 - 11:44 PM

Update from Karen.

Pat's about the same. A little better, he is off one of the BP meds and they decreased the sedation so he is responding to commands. Able to get some Lasix to start reducing the edema. Still has a low grade fever. He is still not strong enough for another procedure to deal with the gallbladder. It's slow going, but he is still fighting. The boys and I are doing okay. Tristan is in Georgia with my sister getting spoiled rotten. Michael and I are hanging out at home. I'm keeping busy around the house. Plenty to do there. I work and visit Pat. He's at my hospital so I check on him at night and in the mornings. It makes me feel good to know there are so many people who care for Pat, me and the boys. Please let everyone on Mudcat know how Pat is doing and I will try to be better about updating. Thanks for all your thoughts. ...Karen.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: jacqui.c
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 05:33 AM

Karen - update when you can. No-one here is expecting you to spend your precious time just keeping us in the know. We can wait. Take care of yourself and give Spaw a big wet kiss from me.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: gnu
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 06:56 AM

Ditto jacqui except the kissing part. A firm, gentlemanly handshake will suffice. Well, a gentle hug too... but in a manly way, of course.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 07:03 AM

thanks for the report, Karen & Janie

love from sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Wesley S
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 07:12 AM

"he is responding to commands"

Well - that must be a first for our Spaw.Here's hoping he gets back to "normal" soon.

I'm rooting for you.

Wesley and family.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 07:22 AM

Karen & Pat...Ann & I send love & greetings from London. You are both in our thoughts, every waking moment of every day. Respecting Pat's Celtic heritage, we offer a Celtic blessing:


May the strength of the wind and the light of the sun,
The softness of the rain and the mystery of the moon
Reach you and fill you.
May beauty delight you and happiness uplift you,
May wonder fulfil you and love surround you.
May your step be steady and your arm be strong,
May your heart be peaceful and your word be true.
May you seek to learn, may you learn to live,
May you live to love, and may you love - always.

                                                                         With Love,
                                                                                        Nigel & Ann Paterson

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: SINSULL
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 09:34 AM

Just checking in.
Karen, take care of you and Spaw. We can wait.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: wysiwyg
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 09:40 AM

+++

~Greg and Susan

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,Pete from seven stars link
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 07:27 PM

".....May the storm that comes your way.......clear the air for a brighter day....."    From sammy horner, the blessing.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: bbc
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 07:47 PM

Thanks for the update, Karen & Janie. Although we don't want to be a nuisance, it's hard, waiting, with no word. Sending much love!

Barbara

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Jeri
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 08:40 PM

I want to hear any news Karen may pass along, but I hope not to add to her stress. We don't hear anything, and it's probably because there's no news.

I'm here, and I will be here. We're all here, trying to helps in whatever way we can as is our nature. Prayers, visualizing, focusing, maybe singing-- whatever we can do, and it's all good. We're spread out all over, but we're there with you Pattersons. Love.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 09:16 PM

Thank you for the news, Karen, and thank you, Janie, for passing it along.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Stewie
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 09:26 PM

Get well, Spaw. Best wishes from the top of Oz.

--Stewie.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Janie
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 09:56 PM

G-night, Spaw, Karen, Tristan and Michael. Rest well.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,Stim
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 10:38 PM

I've been here since Gargoyle used his real name, and, this is a first. Don't fault him, though, I'm there too. Hang on, Pat. We love you, and we still need you...

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: KT
Date: 17 Jun 14 - 11:35 PM

It's so good to have an update, and to hear from Karen, though, as others have said, we can wait and don't want to add any more to your already full plate. Just know that there are a whole lot of us sitting out here in the waiting room, pullin' for ya....Come to think of it, I see a whole lot of the old gang here in this waiting room. That'd make Spaw happy! We're with you, Spaw! And with you, Karen. Hang in there!
Thanks Janie, for keeping us posted.
KT

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: gnu
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 07:56 AM

Not much for me to add except that I check this thread first every time I bring up Mudcat. Then Dan's thread. Then Kendall's thread but thank goodness that had a frightening title with a good news first post. I wish youse guys would stop this shit, magically rise UP and rejoin us but, as said by many others, it takes what it takes. My thoughts, prayers and love to youse and yours.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: MMario
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 08:31 AM

So many have already said anything I could, and probably better then I would have.

I should have known something was up when he last that last game of "words" and didn't start another...

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: SINSULL
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 09:37 AM

Just checking in...

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,Partridge
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 09:59 AM

Thinking of you both and wishing you the very best

love

Pat xx

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Rapparee
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 10:07 AM

I've said it before and I'll say it again:

UP YOURS, SPAW!!!

And the sooner you get yours up and outa there the better1!!!!

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,highlandman at work
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 10:36 AM

Nothing articulate I can add to the great (and some not-so-great) posts above, other than the weight of one more voice lifting you and Karen up to the light... get better, Spaw!
-Glenn

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Waddon Pete
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 10:52 AM

Indeed....all thoughts winging their way from here too.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 12:43 PM

Thinking of you, Pat.

BM

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Bill D
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 12:43 PM

If sheer numbers of concerned people & sincerity can help, Pat will get through all this- ---

As Karen says, he IS a fighter.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: frogprince
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 01:21 PM

Here, pullin' for ya, every day.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: maeve
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 02:40 PM

Checking in, Pat and Karen. Blessings and rejoicing to you and yours.
Maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: bbc
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 06:47 PM

Sending much love from New York!

Barbara

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: gnu
Date: 18 Jun 14 - 08:35 PM

I composed a long post and then deleted it. Here is the nutshell.

Spaw... yer one of the good ones.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 19 Jun 14 - 05:11 AM

Still here...still thinking...still hoping...continuing to hold you both in our daily thoughts.
    One 't', two 'ts'...doesn't matter how you spell Paterson (and it's many variants)...Pat, you're entitled to wear the tartan of the Clan MacLaren. The MacLarens fought with distinction at the Battle of Bannockburn in June, 1324. It's June, 2014...time for you to fight with distinction again, not to defeat the English, but to regain your health & stand tall, once again, with Karen by your side. "Huc Tendimus Omnes"("We all strive for this")
                                                                                          With Love,
                                                                                                 Nigel & Ann Paterson xxxxx

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 19 Jun 14 - 05:51 AM

A Gaelic Proverb for Spaw:
                                        Bidh an t-ubhal as fheàrr air aímheangan as àirde.
                                        The best apple is on the highest bough.

      Pat, you are our 'best apple', resplendent on the highest bough of our Love & Care.
                               With Love,
                                              Nigel & Ann Paterson xxxxx

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: gnu
Date: 19 Jun 14 - 06:07 AM

Mornin, Spaw.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: SINSULL
Date: 19 Jun 14 - 11:16 AM

Nigel - Sappho wrote about the ripest apple on the topmost limb of the tallest tree. So far up the pickers did not notice it ... no - they saw it but could not reach it.

Morning, Karen and Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 19 Jun 14 - 12:01 PM

Perfect, SINSULL, just perfect & so redolent with meaning.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: gnu
Date: 19 Jun 14 - 12:33 PM

Tu chante sa pomme.

If yer from northern NB.ca, you will know it's not literally 'You sing her apple.' but is meant to say 'You shine her apple.' No cheek intended... just came to mind. I think of a lot of useless pieces of drivel.

I do wonder how Spaw is doing but I'll go for 'no news is good news'.

I miss ya, bud.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,Dharmabum
Date: 19 Jun 14 - 01:54 PM

Anyone who knows me, knows that my daughter & I have been going through some hard times these past few years.
Spaws words of wisdom & wit have always been a source of laughter & inspiration.
I miss the "old cat" too Pat.
Maybe someday again.
Do your best to get through this shit.

DB.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Mrrzy
Date: 19 Jun 14 - 05:02 PM

MOre MOunds of MOJO JOining you!

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 19 Jun 14 - 08:30 PM

Still pulling for you and Karen, Spaw!

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Ebbie
Date: 19 Jun 14 - 08:39 PM

Hang in there, OK?

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Severn
Date: 19 Jun 14 - 08:56 PM

Been away from the Cat for a spell. As someone who has been through his share of horse-spittle hell myself, know I'm rooting for you in all you're going through. Hang in there, because us survivors have to stick together, and the best way of doing that is for all of us to remain survivors. Anything less is unacceptable!

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: gnu
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:16 AM

Mornin, Spaw.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:37 AM

Just stopping by with a hug and a wondering look.

Best to you for your day. Met a Buckeye yesterday and thought of you.

Dani

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,Roger the skiffler
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 07:56 AM

I go to Greece for a couple of weeks... I just can't leave you to take care of yourself, 'Spaw. I'll be waiting with the bedpan at the NYCFTTS when you get home!
All the best, pal.
RtS

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: SINSULL
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:30 AM

Morning, Sunshine!

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Rapparee
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 10:21 AM

Nurse Ratchett. The cure.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Ebbie
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 12:03 PM

May today be a good day.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: maeve
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 01:51 PM

Cool ocean winds have brought fresh air to us- may you smell pure, clean air to sweeten the day.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Donuel
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 02:15 PM

It really was worth the effort last time so dammit give it another go, even if you have to settle for a smaller universe.

Your peace of mind matters deeply to more souls than you will ever know.

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: KT
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 02:29 PM

Checking in, holding you in heart and mind, Spaw and Karen. WIshing for you, courage and strength. KT

Subject: RE: BS: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Janie
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 03:29 PM

Very sad news from Karen. Sent 6 hours ago but I am just getting home to see it.

Spaw, if you haven't yet finished the journey, light and love and may it be easy.

Karen, love and light.

Janie. ..we're letting Pat go today. He's fought hard, but his kidneys are failing. It's time to say goodbye.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: olddude
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 03:43 PM

i can't stop crying

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: KT
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 03:44 PM

Oh....Spaw, you've given SO much to this community. In fact, much of why we are such a strong community is because of your many contributions. Thank you. Karen, so much love is being sent your way right now...
KT

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 03:49 PM

The "BS" is off of this thread title, it's about serious business. Wishing a gentle passing for our old mudcat friend.

Maggie

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST,pete from seven stars link
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 04:12 PM

and a sad reflective prayer from me....blessing       pete.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 04:15 PM

It's been good to know you, Pat.

BM

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 04:19 PM

Oh, I ache to see this. I haven't been around for some time- trying to spend less time cruising the inter webs, but I miss my friends and haven't had a chat with Spaw for too long. Just last week I thought of giving him a call, but didn't get to it. Spaw, old buddy, you are one of the finest that Mudcat has to offer.

Karen, light and love and strength to you. You are in my heart today.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: maeve
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 04:27 PM

Blessings to you, Pat and Karen, and to your loving family. Our hearts will follow as far as we can.

Pat, you'll soon be in "The Farthest Field". Thank you for your laughter, your quiet kindnesses, your amazing family.
We love you.

Maeve

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST,mg
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 04:40 PM

May he rest in peace.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST,Sorcha
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 04:48 PM

Oh shit oh shit oh shit...we all knew this was coming but it is STILL too hard to take. Oh Pat, carry on with your craziness in your next life. GOD DAMMIT PAT !

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Morticia
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 04:48 PM

Just heard, bloody gutted. Move on easy, my friend, if you really must move on. Thinking of you and your family and the Spaw sized hole you are going to leave in my life. My love to you all

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Genie
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 04:51 PM

Sending love and light to you for a peaceful journey, Spaw.   I'm crying now too, but so glad I got to know your curmudgeonly wit and big heart and wisdom via the 'Cat and Facebook over the years.   What you've given of yourself will remain long after today.   My heart goes out to Karen and all of your family.   I hope you'll soon be making music with Barry Finn and CatLaughing and Rick Fielding and the rest of that big choir.

Genie

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Amergin
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 04:52 PM

Damn it. Spawn...I can hardly type through the tears, as you walk across the fields to the shadowed trees...you've been there in many ways for me...even when you didn't know it...gave me laughter when I was having a rough time...your snarky wit sharp as a serrated blade, barely hid your gentleness. I will miss you, my friend.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Tinker
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 04:55 PM

Just gonna quote Spaw back on himself... a little better than a month ago he commented on a photo of Jarius and I

" a portrait of the real and deep love that comes with lives lived together through the tangles of life. .....Hell, I dunno'.....Whatever it is it gets me ........Kinda' like the last verse of "Maggie" gets me.......Thanks"

Thanks Spaw, I think you summed up pretty much what you've given us through all the tangles of life with humor and love...


Blessings and light on the journey....with a wash of tears to clear the path....

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST,Giok
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:00 PM

Always wanted to meet up with you Spaw, Guess it'll be on the other side now, if ever.
You WILL be missed; a lot.
Easy over old friend.

John

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Mr Red
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:04 PM

death ain't fair, but then neither is life. Spaw didn't waste it neither.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Fibula Mattock
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:14 PM

I'm an awfully long time gone from here but this is a man I value so much. Love to you, Spaw. X

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Janie
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:15 PM

Fierce storm raging here now that intellectually I know has nothing to do with Spaw. Stupid to keep the 'puter on. But I fantasize it is Spaw, blazing his fierce intellect and compassion and rationality out to the universe.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Big Mick
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:16 PM

I posted this on Facebook today. I love you, my friend. Godspeed and fair winds on the next leg of the journey.

CATSPAW - funny name, an online handle. I remember that time, in the early days of the Mudcat, and how I found him to be a funny, irreverent guy. I was just drawn to him, and for the life of me, I couldn't figure out why. But he embraced the place, in those early days when it was full of fascinating people, great and small, many (we would discover as time went on) of whom were luminaries in the world of folk music. Then he got sick, went to the hospital, very nearly died. I remember starting a thread asking for whatever juju the folks believed in to help Spaw through. The magnificent Mudcatters responded with such an outpouring of love, well wishes, good thoughts, and prayers from around the world, that ole Spawzer and his wonderful wife Karen would remark later that they were sure it helped pull him through. As he recovered he became a central player in one of the most remarkable worldwide online folk communities ever. His irreverent wit, amazing intelligence, love for the history of all kinds of music,foul mouth, encyclopedic knowledge of an amazing number of subjects, love of his family, and genuine interest in the lives of people, made him one of the most popular Mudcatters ever. He was a founding member of Lane, Patterson, Fielding, and Swan, Layabouts at Large and for Hire, whose mission was to come to the rescue of those driven types so caught up in their careers that they had no time for relaxing. For a small or large fee, we would come to your house, lay on your couch, drink your beer, and watch sports for you while you are busy chasing the golden ring.

In short, Catspaw has been a helluva buddy, a wonderful friend, and a great Dad and husband. He was one of those special people that made those golden days of Mudcat so special. Spaw has been battling various ailments for a long time now, and the love of his life, Karen, has been there at his side through thick and thin. I received word today that his kidneys are failing and the decision has been made to let my friend go on his way. I will miss him terribly. We only spoke occasionally, life and all that getting in the way, but I want the world to know that I love this man, and have been inspired by his struggle, his family, and his take on life. I want you to know that I have learned much about music, instruments and wrenching on motors from him. But most of all, I learned to look at the world in a real way, spread truth, and call out ignorance in a straightforward and unvarnished way. You have been a big force in my life, Pat Spaw Patterson. I will see you on the other side, bro. Karen and boys, I am so sorry for your loss, and inspired by your bravery in letting him go. I never once spoke to him that he didn't speak of his love and devotion for you.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Dave Swan
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:24 PM

This from Karen last night.

"I swear I don't know what to tell you. He was improving some and today he seems to be backsliding some"

I have no smartassed Pat-style reply to this.

Only sending love to Karen, the boys, and all of us who are left missing him so much.

Of course, Brother Lane said it well. What a huge hole Pat Leaves, and what a great friend he was.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Amos
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:27 PM

Oh, Goddamit to hell.

The deepest heart and the widest grin and the brightest wit in all of Mudcatland, and an honest friend. He was the bright light that drew me in to this motley landscape and the best voice in all the chorus that kept me coming back over the years.

NOW what are we gonna do? No-one else can even pronounce jadrool broke-dick mammalucca correctly. There's never been a broader reach or a deeper vision or a funnier rap in all our millions.

I can only hope that when he comes back--oh, I am sure he will have to after all that wicked karma mechanics -- that he retains all his inimitable vocabulary, his wicked sensa yewma, his brightness of eye and the wicked glint in his eye, and the unending enthusiasm and affection for life in all its forms (except for jadrools).

Bless you, auld Pat. You are one of a kind. May the wind always be at your back, and may you be forever young. I love you.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Lox
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:32 PM

Hi folks,

Haven't been here for a long time, but this seems like the appropriate moment to drop in.

I always liked Spaw.

Lox.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:36 PM

Old f*****g bastard. Foul mouthed c**t. Genius. Who's going to look after the novice nuns now?

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Amos
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:46 PM

The long-vanished Green Goddess, Aine, wrote this song for Spaw many years ago, and asked me to put it to music.

It's in His Heart.

Spaw liked it, and it captures a small part of what we felt for Pat.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: MartinRyan
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:46 PM

Good to see old friends return to pay tribute.

Regards

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST,LTS on an android
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:46 PM

Can't get my head round this... it's been a crappy week. My mother is doing the very same thing in New Zealand, but that news hasn't struck so deeply as this.

Karen, there are no words....

LTS

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Bonnie Shaljean
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 05:55 PM

I am so very sorry to read this. He brightened up the days of many people all over the world who weren't lucky enough to be able to meet him in person. His net presence was larger than life, as the man himself was. And remains.

My deepest condolences (what an inadequate word that is) to Karen and the rest of his family.

Bonnie

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:07 PM

It is with very fond memories of the time Sam Pirt, Ian Stevenson and myself spent a summer evening with Spaw and his family singing and playing and eating and rembering. I always thought that someday we'd meet up again but sadly than will now never happen. R.I.P. Spaw
Bill Sables

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST,kendall
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:12 PM

There are never words at a time such as this, even for a pedantic pain in the ass such as I, but he knows he has been a high point in my life. Usually, people who begin from day one with insults don't make it beyond that point, but, you did, my friend. The only regret I have is that I never met you. Rest easy, Mate.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST,MCP
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:14 PM

Just saw this on f/b. I never met Spaw but like many others enjoyed his often funny, often provoking, often just plain strange posts. So sorry to hear this.

Thinking of you tonight.
Mick and Rhiannon (ZM)

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Noreen
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:14 PM

One of the kindest, funniest people I have ever known, though never met. I will miss you so much, Pat. Love you. Xxx

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:17 PM

This is devastating news...need time to find the words I want to say...Karen, Ann & I send our love & sincere condolences...much more to say, but can't think straight...will try again tomorrow,
               With Love & aching hearts,
                                                       Nigel & Ann Paterson
                                                       xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Rob Naylor
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:21 PM

Another one who never met him IRL, but who's enjoyed enormously his posts here. Sometimes I was near to tears through laughing at them. Very sad news.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:27 PM

So, is no member starting an Obit thread? Catspaw49 is GONE and no one will ever replace him...please don;t leave his Obit to a guest like me...come ON, Members!!

---

In good time. Let the man die peacefully first. --mudelf

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:35 PM

Very sad indeed. I can not really add to what has been said already but I just wanted to say I will miss him too. He had not been here for a while but we communicated once or twice on Facebook and I remember having a laugh with him about Spaw Cottage. I will make sure I pass by there again soon and raise a glass in his honour.

Cheers

Dave the Gnome

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: MMario
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:42 PM

I just started a tavern thread....and no; he will always be one of a kind.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Janie
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 06:52 PM

Guest, what we know is what I posted from Karen's message to me, and my role is that of messenger. Karen, darling Karen, has simply communicated to me as a conduit to Mudcat.

We do not know if Pat has transitioned to death yet or not. Many different beliefs here regarding that process, but consensus, in general, that until we know, we wait, watch, and care.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Janie
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 07:03 PM

did not see the mudelf post before I posted. Says it all. Feel free to delete my post as extraneous.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Jeri
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 07:03 PM

It would be a good idea to wait until there is some confirmation that he's passed before starting an Obit thread. Unless I missed something?

What I wrote a couple minutes ago on Facebook:

I wound up at Mudcat because of Pat. I read the thread about his current-at-the-time health crisis, and I could feel the love of community wash over me. Then Barry Finn and Sandy Paton encouraged me to join, so I did, and now, THEY'RE gone.
The last time I heard from Pat, he told me he knew he wasn't going to last very long, but the time when he wasn't going through chemo or recovering from it was good. Worth it for his family. Love is what really matters, anyway.

Everybody wants more time.

I wouldn't mind being able to go back to those days once in a while.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: bbc
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 07:44 PM

Just saw Mick's post on Facebook & rushed here. Devastating news! Pat was a man we came to love, even though most of us never met him, face to face. He lived large & well. I am proud to have known him & grieve his loss. Karen, my love to you & your sons!

Beebs

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Bert
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 07:57 PM

I wrote this when I lost Lou. I am sharing it for you Karen.


Your life's hard work is over
all the storms have left the sky
the sun sets in the mountains
and its time to say goodbye

you have been my own true lover
the time has come I know
you'll be part of me forever
though I have to let you go

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST,Dharmabum
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:09 PM

That's one helluva footprint you made here Pat.
One helluva footprint.

DB.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: KT
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:20 PM

Mudcat friends, I've just received this message from Karen, who asked me to share it with you.

" Pat left us about 5pm.   I want everyone at mudcat to know how much they enriched his life. I am hoping he is out there tonight cavorting with mudcatters that have gone before him."

We'll hear more from Karen when she's able.

love,
KT

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Dan Schatz
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:22 PM

Goodbye, Spaw. The world will be a little less joyful without you.

Dan

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: bbc
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:22 PM

A reunion with Sandy Paton, Barry Finn, & Rick Fielding would be grand! Hope the party is on. We'll miss you dearly, my friend!

Love,

Beebs

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Jeri
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:23 PM

Janie, thanks.

I think we all would like more news, but it may not come quickly. I'm appreciating the time lag to live in denial for a bit. I think Pat is/was ready, but I'm pretty sure most of the rest of us aren't.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Amergin
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:23 PM

Thank you, KT....


Rest easy, Pat...sleep well.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST,Alison
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:27 PM

Isn't it amazing that we all came back to this thread, some of us who haven't visited mudcat for years. We still feel that community and the love of our mudcat friends around the world. I too saw Micks message in Facebook & I am posting my response here as well.

I'm sitting here in Australia with tears pouring down my cheeks for a man I never met, who I have considered a friend since the early days of mudcat. I remember those candles lit all around the world, and all the healing energy and prayers when we thought we were going to lose 'spaw the first time. Mick your words were perfect as usual, thanks for writing them. To Karen and the boys, I am so sorry for your loss, we will all miss him.

Slainte

Alison

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Jeri
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:28 PM

What KT wrote...
I took too long writing my last post.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: bassen
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:32 PM

So, so sad but so much goodness and laughter to remember.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Janie
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:43 PM

Karen. all that {{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Hugs}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}} carry.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Little Robyn
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:45 PM

Lovely song Amos.
Go in peace Spaw.
Love
Robyn

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Stewie
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 08:48 PM

Such sad news. Vale Pat.

--Stewie.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:03 PM

Alison, I'm feeling the same way- we're back together again like the old days, singing songs, holding each other, telling stories about the old fart- we'll likely go our separate ways again but we'll all have a little piece of him with us.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: gnu
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:05 PM

Just heard. My heart goes out to Karen and family and all who knew this wonderful, gracious, generous, kind and always funny in his own way, man. He will live forever in my heart and in the hearts of many.

I love you, Spaw.

gnightgnu

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: LilyFestre
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:16 PM

:(   Peace to you Spaw.....and multitudes of love for you and your family.

Michelle

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST,open mike
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:24 PM

As happens in our nuclear families, the passing of one of our members brings us together. Let us celebrate life...thank you Spaw for being there for us all through the years. Blessings to Karen at this difficult time. The suffering is over.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: GUEST,Dharmabum
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:26 PM

Happy Trails.
Goodnight Spaw.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:29 PM

first tears then laughter when I re-read some some of Spaw's 29363 posts

here's his first post dated 23 Dec 98 and here's his second where he introduced himself & Karen "Well, you just sorta' er,uh ... well kinda'...uh,see,uh..."

goodbye friend

love to Karen & family

sandra (crying again)

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Fortunato
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:31 PM

Thanks to Dave Swan for posting on the Facebook the news that 'spaw has "shuffle[d] off this mortal coil". Thus I knew to return here to the Mudcat to join this thread.

For many years I enjoyed the posts that Pat made. I enjoyed his irreverence and his wit.

No doubt there will be other threads of tribute and remembrance, and I'll return in hopes of seeing those. In the meantime, 'spaw was a significant part of this world of thought, and part of my consciousness.

Chance Shiver

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Elmore
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:32 PM

RIP Spaw.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Little Hawk
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:43 PM

Adios, Pat. It was fun knowing you. I hope you find some pleasant surprises on the other side.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Mrrzy
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:46 PM

Bye Spaw, I will try not to smell the clouds!

Love to your family and friends,

-Mrr

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:49 PM

I saw this sad news first on the Jane's Rainbow thread. I commented there. I can only add that I, too, will miss Spaw. Also, I'm staying out of the tavern at least for now. It's not good for me to drink when I've just heard bad news.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: ranger1
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:51 PM

I have no words right now, just tears.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: Severn
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 09:57 PM

My thoughts go out to the family and to all who are directly affected by his death. He was an important part of our online community and a household name around The Cay. He will be greatly missed.

Subject: RE: Spaw needs all mojo we can muster - update :(
From: frogprince
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 10:02 PM

All the craziness...all the aching from laughter...and there has never in my life been any other person, whom I've known only by words from a distance, who has done so much to hold me up from despair in the roughest moments of my life. I give thanks that he was with us, and with all my heart wish comfort and peace to Karen and the family.

                Dean Elkins

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Jeri
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 10:14 PM

Pat wrote this in Sandy Paton's Obit thread:

I will never forget a line he wrote back in '99 when I was extremely ill. He, like so many others, rallied round and it surprised everyone I think at what a place Mudcat was becoming. He wrote, "My God, I've tears in my eyes for a man I've never met. This is what is meant by "community."

Indeed. And today my eyes are filled with tears as well.

I know that feeling. I miss that feeling of community, but whenever something happens to make us try to find it, it's still right here.

Because Spaw liked Pat Sky, and because the song is beautiful:

Of all these things, you can be sure,
Only love will endure

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Ebbie
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 10:15 PM

I never met him? Funny. I could swear I had. He made himself known to all of us, this eloquent, profane, loving and tender sweetheart of a man.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 10:19 PM

Too much loss this week.

Oh, Karen!

I'm sorry, I just can't say anything else right now.

My heart is with you...

Linn

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,open mike
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 10:24 PM

Good bye to our dear Patrick "SPAW" Patterson and
love and hugs and best wishes to Karen and the boys,
Tristan and Michael .

That song posted earlier "It's In His Heart" is a great tribute.

SPAW has inspired many and his insight and humor has uplifted us
here for many years. As one of the founding members of Lane, Fielding, Patterson, and Swan---Layabouts At Large and For Hire, he has clocked many hour of diligent service to all.

He has brought to life a whole cast of characters including Cletus the
possum and others...I hope they will continue to make appearances here.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Rex
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 10:35 PM

This forum was the first online community I ever joined. When did it start? I have since joined two others. From the beginning there were some of our members that became the foundation of this forum. Kat was one. Catspaw another. But I always saw Catspaw as something more. Sometimes a jester, sometimes a referee. In any case this forum will always reflect some of his ways. Happy trails Spaw, may we all meet again.

Rex

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: MBSGeorge
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 10:44 PM

Condolences to the family. A lovely man. RIP Catspaw.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Bill D
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:00 PM

One of the treasured 2 hours of my life was meeting Pat & Karen & Tristian when they made the time to drive up and meet Rita & myself on the edge of Columbus for lunch as we were heading home from St. Louis. We laughed and compared notes and **shared** as much as we could in that precious little window of reality. Pat's love for Karen & his boys was just as clear as he, himself, showed for all these years in his writings.

I had asked Pat to do me a favor if *I* happened to die, and he laughingly agreed. Now it seems I shall have to scheme in some other way... (It's ok Spaw...I'll manage)

I swore I'd get this sent before allowing the tears to blur my vision--- didn't quite make it.

'bye, guy.....

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Rosebrook
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:03 PM

My heartfelt condolences to Karen and the rest of Pat's family. Spaw certainly made an incredible imprint on so many, many folks here in the mudcat community. Comfort to us all.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: olddude
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:16 PM

Can't tell you how much he meant to me he would always call he and Karen would make me laugh when I was down. Pat was my friend I will miss him more than I can say
Thank you pat for being such a good friend to me. I love you my brother I love you Karen and kids I will never forget

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Micca
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:17 PM

I thought I posted this earlier, but It is on Fb and not here
"Love and Hugs to you, Karen, and to Tris and the "other" Michael Patterson also, as for Spaw, He will be missed and mourned and remembered all over the world by many people who never met him, yet whom he touched through Mudcat and Facebook and few could ask for or merit a better epitaph"

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: J-boy
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:19 PM

Bye, Spaw.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: gnu
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:20 PM

Once upon a time, I recounted a story, off the cuff, about an interaction I had with a humming bird in a Mudcat thread (post?). Spaw said something like... that's the best thing I have read that you wrote... that was great. It was more than that nutshell and I was taken aback. It was a simple description of what had just happened but Spaw saw it as a 'sharing' of my experience. We PMd about it. He encouraged me to write. I have. I have shared few of my writings with few. I have been encouraged by others that I also admire to keep writing (thanks) but Spaw was the first and he deserves credit for being that guy that is just a great guy. Went out of his way to encourage a hack like me. Went out of his way to advise me when things got nasty on The Cat with trolls and such. Went out of his way... yeah. That's what he did. Went out of his way. For so many people, as witnessed in these accolades.

If ya don't know the Rainbow Thread, ya might not understand these last words but they mean more now than ever.

UP SPAW!

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat
From: Joe Offer
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:26 PM

Maybe ten years ago, I made up my mind that I had to meet Catspaw. I think it was October 2001, just after the Getaway. I took a trip west from the Getaway in Maryland, and ended up driving along the Ohio River to Louisville and then to Cincinnati. I headed back east to Columbus, and realized I wasn't far from Bremen, Ohio. I used to tease Catspaw about all the road kill I saw along the way, but I got to Bremen and it was a wonderful little town with the streets paved with bricks.
I got to Spaw's addressed, unannounced. I rang the doorbell, and Spaw answered the door. He recognized me right away, and spoke as if meeting somebody out of the blue was an everyday experience in his life. He said something like, "Joe Offer, how the heck are you?" And then we sat down for an hour or two and had a wonderful time.
That's the only time I ever saw him, but it stuck with me. To me, he's always been a really extraordinary person. I know that he went through a lot of health issues over the last decade or more, but he never seemed to lose his spirit.
Spaw, may you rest in peace. You were a good man.

And Karen, I've never met you in person, but bless you for being all you were to him.

-Joe Offer-

---

Here's a link to Spaw's posts. He last posted on 29 May 2014.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Azizi
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:29 PM

Thanks for all that you shared with us, Catspaw.

Condolence to your family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Guy Wolff
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:36 PM

So many years of very kind and humorus friendship .. When I started on Mudcat I had never used a computer and could not type. (I still cant spell) A few joked me about my low standards of comunication but Spaw always got what i was tring to say.I was just holding on when I got here . .My daughter was battling a mean and very bad Brain tumor at the Yale Hospitol and I had just found out my youngest three year old son had autisum ... Spaw had an honest kindness and the kind of friendship that has a backbone of true loyalty to it .He will not be forgotten because of it . I know Rick is talking to him right now about strings and tunings and probably fart jokes .. So many warm thoughts   .. All the best to all here and so glad to hear so many old friends on this thread . Guy

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:50 PM

I don't know what to say. There is so much history here for me going back to almost the beginning of mudcat, and Pat has been such a huge part of this community. Special, special man. Hugs to you, Karen.

Alice

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: JudyB
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:53 PM

Sending light and love - and my sympathy to Karen, and all friends, far and near.
~JudyB

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,maryrrf (no cookie)
Date: 20 Jun 14 - 11:58 PM

I'm sorry to hear this news. Deepest condolences to Spaw's family. Another of the "old guard" gone. He will be missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,donmeixner
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 12:21 AM

I believe people we love go through hell at the last just to make it easier for us to let them go. Pat and I played some epic games of Word and found we were equally matched.   He was on the way to winning the last one when he left for the last time. He always seemed to be more than a friend. He was a pal.

Don

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,partridge
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 12:52 AM

So sorry to hear this news. I remember Pat with great fondness. Sending lots of love to Karen and the boys

Pat xxx

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,LTS on the sofa
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 01:04 AM

Word games..   Hmmm, yes...

He let me continue a Word with Friends game, just to see if I could get 600points, when he could have resigned and lost by a small margin, but he let it go on and I thrashed him by over 300 points. Between us, that game clocked up nearly 1000 points, even without me getting the magical 600... but that was the man. He'd continue playing the game, to see the end, not pull out half way because he was losing.

Seems he spent his life refusing to resign... So many times he could have just thrown in the tiles, but he didn't. Now the pot is empty, there are no words left.

LTS

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Gervase
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 01:50 AM

Just woken up to see this via FaceBook and thinking that a part of my life has gone. Bugger.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 02:04 AM

. . . sigh. . .

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 02:36 AM

I will drink to him tonight.

Dave H

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: mouldy
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 02:59 AM

I go away for a few days, and I come back to this saddest of news.
Spaw, your legacy of kind thoughts and incisive wit at always the right times will live on in my heart.
My thoughts are with Karen and the rest of your family and friends.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: alanabit
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 03:29 AM

It was those tough and often obscene posts of his which caught my eye, but you quickly realised that behind them there was a gentle spirit. He was unique and irreplaceable. Farewell Pat. We are really going to miss you.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Larry The Radio Guy
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 03:31 AM

Ut's so obvious as you read the posts what an incredible impact Spaw has had on so many people. Rest in peace.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: greg stephens
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 04:07 AM

Oh dear. A bloke who brought us so much laughter...something we need a lot. Thoughts to Karen. Thoughts to all of us

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: billybob
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 04:24 AM

The saddest news that we never wanted to hear, thank you Spaw for all your love and wisdom. We never met but you made a huge impact on the Rainbow,all my love to Karen.

Wendy xxxxxxxxxxxx

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 04:59 AM

"The sweetest apple from the highest bough has been picked by a greater hand". Pat, Patrick Patterson (son of Patrick), you were one of the few people who, within the space of one brief paragraph, could be profane, profound, offer comfort, make me laugh & cry, but always left me with the feeling that something special had just taken place. I will treasure your posts & PMs. I will miss your humour & insight. I will miss your love of life which shone through every word you wrote. Above all, I will miss You, Pat, a man I've never met in person, yet feel I know so well. You have enriched my life.
         To Karen, your Family & Friends, I send my heartfelt condolences & love. Despite the ocean that separates us, Ann & I are by your side, each & every day.
                                     With Much Love,
                                                             Nigel & Ann Patterson (two 'Ts' in honour of Pat)
                                                             xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 05:25 AM

We always know it's coming to all of us, but it's devastating when it happens. I've never met Spaw, never seen him, and never talked to him except through posts on the Cat, which is a kind of diminished talking, but I'm going to miss him like a brother.

Since I read the news last night the words of Henry Lawson's The Outside Track have been running through my mind, especially that last verse,

And one by one, and two by two,
Sailed from the wharf since then;
I said good-bye to the last I knew,
The last of the careless men.
And I can't but think the times we had,
Were the best times after all;
As I turn aside with a lonely glass,
And drink to the bar-room wall.

For they marry and go as the world rolls back,
They marry and vanish and die;
But their spirit shall live on the outside track,
As long as the years go by.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 05:34 AM

I consider myself something of a 'wordsmith'. But there are times when words fail.
Farewell to one of the good ones.

R.I.P. Spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Raedwulf
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 05:44 AM

I bet he left halfway through 6 arguments, just to annoy the hell out of the opposition! :) See you on the other side (eventually, I hope), Pat.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Les from Hull
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 06:49 AM

Going to miss this guy. Night night Spas.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: vectis
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 06:49 AM

One of the funniest and most erudite men I met on-line. He will be missed by so many of us. RIP Spaw.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 06:54 AM

The old devil got me my virtual job as chief bedpan operative at the NYCFTTS and I've always relished his kind (if physically damaged) heart, disguised in his scatalogical postings. Another part of the Mudcat gone too soon. I'll never get to link him to my latest set of Greek photos. That celestial folk band of departed Mudcatters just gets bigger.
Kali Nichta, Pat,
RtS

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: nutty
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 07:03 AM

Can't say anything that hasn't already been said. I hoped (a vain hope ) to meet him one day and find out if his physical personna was as large as the one he assumed online. A giant of a man with a ready wit he had me laughing out loud on so many, many occassions. RIP Spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Fossil
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 07:31 AM

Oh dear... Bugger... Why always the good 'uns? So long, old timer. We will indeed miss you. Condolences to family and friends. Love to the rest of the grieving Mudcat.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Max
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 07:42 AM

A damn fine man done gone. Farewell old friend.

Karen, we're here for you. You have a very large, albeit very odd army of weirdos at your beck and call. Much love.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: David C. Carter
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 07:59 AM

One of the best persons I sadly never got to meet.

RIP


David

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 08:10 AM

Hello, old friends. Not the reunion I would have chosen, but as we pass in the aisles and pews, I am grateful for the reminder that this is not really Brigadoon, but an actual community filled with amazing, struggling, flawed, warm, real, gorgeous human beings.

I too imagine this sunny Saturday as 'Spaw strolls up to the Great Getaway in the Sky. Thusly: http://youtu.be/bSC6Ciqyjwc

Pat's heart and soul, his devotion to his family, his intelligence were always clear and appealing, and one of the things I loved best about him, as Mick said, was that he could and would "call out ignorance in a straightforward and unvarnished way". The world needs more of that.

I look forward to strolling back through his posts from over the years, and remembering (as well as his wisdom) the many, many early morning cups of coffee spewed out over keyboard and desk, as I was caught defenseless in the face of his unmatched wit.

My condolences, Karen, and Pat's sons. May the memory of his great love soothe your grief. Thank you for sharing him with us.

I shall make, eat and share a big batch of Buckeyes in his memory.

Dani

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 08:42 AM

One of the joys with the Mudcat is the way sometimes when people open up an old thread to continue the topic, and you find yourself reading posts by Mudfriends who have left us - Rick Fielding, katlaughing, just for a start. So we can still hope to encounter Spaw again from time to time.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 09:24 AM

Well said - McGrath.

It's a sad day for Mudcatters, sadder still for the family and loved of Spaw. My thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones. May we all keep his memory in our hearts - and continue to keep his thoughts alive through these threads.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,jed marum
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 09:25 AM

sorry - that was me, above .... cookieless, at the moment - for some reason.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: JennieG
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 09:31 AM

To echo what I heard recently - Spaw was a good bloke. Love and condolences to Karen and family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Peter K (Fionn)
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 09:40 AM

It's all been said. Just wanted to put my name in the book.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Rapparee
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 09:40 AM

The boat has sailed and gone from our sight. But that does not mean the boat has disappeared.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: KT
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 09:53 AM

At last night's music session, in our dear Spaw's memory, I sang Bob Franke's "Thanksgiving Eve."
"What can you do with each moment of your life, but love, 'til you've loved it away...?"

Spaw's brought us all together, once again.

KT

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: fat B****rd
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 09:56 AM

As Peter K said.
Spaw was kind when I had my own sad loss last year and always a friendly correspondent. My best regards and condolences to family and friends.
Charlie.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Amergin
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 10:28 AM

Pat could always get me laughing and had a way of making me feel like a worthwhile human being...especially in my darkest moments...where all hope had failed me and I was barely going through the mechanical motions of living...and always supportive.

His stories of Cletus and gang were crass...vulgar but bloody hilarious...at the same time his stories of his boys would melt my heart, especially the one of Tristan and the truckers who g ave him a ride in the semi...

Fucking a....he was the epitome of what the cat was all about.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 11:13 AM

I hope someone can gather the Cletus stories together for us. Online, or in print.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: eddie1
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 11:44 AM

Someone once said that if you put your thumb in a pond, then pull it out, the size of the hole it leaves is an indication of the difference you have made to the lives of others!
Spaw, me old mucker, you have left a f*****g great hole. This thread proves that!

Bye!

Eddie

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Janie
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 11:57 AM

Thinking of you, Karen.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: bbc
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 11:58 AM

McGrath, that would make a great permathread. Anyone interested in attempting it?

bbc

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat
From: Big Mick
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 12:20 PM

In the very early days I had to travel to Cincinnatti, Oho, USA from my home in Michigan for a Union organizing drive. Spaw had it in his mind that he wanted to meet me, and he drove 3.5 hours and we met for dinners, stories, and songs. I remember that we did a call in to Max's office, and if I remember correctly, Max streamed it out on the net. It was one of the earliest 3D "meets" and I remember how excited Max was. For days, and maybe weeks, people would ask me what Spaw was like in person. They were surprised (as I was when I met him) to find that he was a gentle, soft spoken fella. His love of the community, that Mudcat was at the time, was palpable. The fellowship was wonderful, the jokes (of which there were many) were raunchy and hilarious, and we became fast friends.

I will miss this man. My Gran, Winnie, always said that it is always about the coming and the going. As I have explored and mined that thought, I realize that the fact that we die can never be the defining event. It is natural and we all end up "in our box" at some point. The real point is to live an interesting life, a life of consequence, a life in which one has loved and is loved. Our buddy, Pat "Catspaw" Patterson has met all the criteria for that. Well done, pal. Your voice will always be found in your family and in the many friends you made, both online and in the world. See you on the other side.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 12:22 PM

Cletus site:mudcat.org only 2,680 results

Not all are posts by Spaw, many would be other Catters referring to Cletus & the boys, & it would appear Cletus himself posted on occasion.

The first link from the search is from Spaw -Paw, Cletus, Buford, & the Reg boys - initial post 17 Jun 99, maybe the earliest reference to Cletus? and this is from Guest, Cletus

it's 2.20 on Sunday morning here in Sydney, so I'm logging off.

Maybe someone will have completed the job by the time I log in again later in the morning? she sez. hopefully

sandra

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Amergin
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 12:44 PM

There are alot of repeats in the stories....but so far I have about 30 some odd pages in word.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: gnu
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 01:06 PM

Indeed. So many wonderful posts. A grand tribute.

I am an emotional person. Yeah... yeah... I know... "No shit, Sherlock." But, I usually suck it up after a wee bit over these kinda things. Not this time. The tears just won't stop when I read the threads. So here is some personal therapy. I hope it comforts someone else. It's Spaw's 2nd or third last post to Nigel's thread.....

Subject: RE: Jane's Rainbow: for all needing support & comfort
From: catspaw49 - PM
Date: 24 May 14 - 09:46 AM

So...............Whatever you can cross, keep crossed.

This is the end of another chemo week and that has always been my lowest point. Made changes in daily meds and diet to better work the balance between the CHF, Intestinal thickening, COD, and the MDS. Today (and this week) I feel better than I have in a couple of years.....and even before the MDS. I look better, have a lot more energy, less O2 demand..went out and ran around yesterday PM and didn't even pack any along....Hard to tell what happens next.

We'll see what the numbers do over the next couple of weeks and know more then. Balancing this crap is a hell of a juggling act and about half of it I know as much about what to do as the Docs. We upped the Lasix but with the water being the best source for stool softeners and the thickening of the intestinal walls, the added Lasix took that water away as well. So I modified my diet. Then I modified the Lasix dosage (okayed by the my cardio guy) to some alternate day dosage levels and things are moving, so to speak.LOL Better yet, there seems to be no fluid at all around my heart....This is serious progress.

Then add that the current chemo has a strong fatigue factor and so is then accompanied by a steroid has obviously helped. I really wanna' see the numbers now....Keep 'em all crossed Folks.

I know, and you should too so there's no confusion, MDS is not curable but I going to buy all the time with Karen I can. While this past year has been great together, there has been far too many 10 day periods of chemo misery and many days spent low in numbers before I can get blood. Nobody my age beats this. Not Nora Ephrom, not Carl Sagan, and not me. But June the 8th is my birthday and my wish is for one more year and especially one where I feel like I do now. Next year I'll repeat that and see how long we can do it!

Sorry, I'm still pissed over the 'Cat but that's just because I do really miss what it once was. Time passes, things change, and as Tom Wolfe wrote, you can't go home again. I'll get over it.......

Hugs once again for the crew here and follow Nigel's good advice: Set the sails...splice the mainbrace...plot a course for the sun.

Spaw

Thanks, buddy.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Big Mick
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 01:23 PM

"Set the sails...splice the mainbrace...plot a course for the sun."

Spaw (via Nigel)

Let me just "Amen"

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: skarpi
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 01:24 PM

R.I.P ..spaw ...

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 01:38 PM

Happy Trails, Catspaw

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Gervase
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 01:44 PM

It's been the best part of a day now, and I've spent most of it thinking about someone I never met in the flesh, but who always seemed to be there with kind words, profanities and a kick up the arse during some pretty dire times, and who was also there to whoop and holler and share the good times.
I have to say, I'm bloody gutted.
I first came here back in the Nineties, and Spaw was already a fixture. I remember once, when he asked if anyone could get hold of some bike training wheels for Tris, I though,"sod it," went out and got 'em and posted them to Ohio. The picture Pat sent me of Tris on his bike, whizzing along with the trainer wheels giving him confidence, lifted the heart. From that moment, although we were never to meet, Pat felt like the big, bad brother I never had. The sort of person my mother told me never to play with, but the sort of person you always wanted to be with.
I always entertained the notion that one day I'd go back to the USA and head off towards the middle and find this daft big brother and Karen, his long-suffering but lovely wife and Tris, his hugely-loved son, and share a few beers and maybe put him right on so many things. Now that won't happen. And that makes me sadder than I can say.
Through the years I've been a frightful curmudgeon; saying "It's just an internet forum; no-one's who they really are; we're all just binary blinks for heaven's sake," when people have gone gooey-eyed over the Mudcat, or fallen out and thrown their toys out of the pram. Every time I'd get a PM from Pat reminding me that, actually, it was much more than that. Behind every little blue name and pseudonym was a person. It's not exaggerating to say that he changed my way of viewing the online world, proving by his close friendship that I was very wrong.
And now this close friend, who I never met, has gone. And so I sit here in north London, tears running down my cheeks, in grateful appreciation of someone who demonstrated so well that basic humanity is a damned tough thing and, like bindweed, with grow through and confound any number of modern things.
As Larkin put it, and in Pat's case it's very true, "what will survive of us is love."
Goodnight old pal. Karen; stay strong, he loved you to bits. Tris; he was so proud of you. The rest of us; we were bloody lucky.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Janie
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 02:58 PM

So well said, Gervase.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: gnu
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 03:52 PM

Ditto Janie.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,mauvepink
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 04:13 PM

I heard a lot about this sweet and kind soul on here. We never exchanged messages but then some of the most influencial poeple you know on here may never share a message with you either. It don't matter. What they were, what they stood for, and how they are remembered is what matters....

My sympathy to his family and many friends. And to the legend he will become...

RIP Catspaw :)

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Will Fly
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 04:14 PM

Just back from a gig to read all this. Another one gone. What can one say that hasn't been said...

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: SINSULL
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 04:34 PM

Peace to Karen, Michael and Tris.
RIP, Spaw
SINS

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Matthew Edwards
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 06:28 PM

Spaw always seemed larger than life here on Mudcat, and he still seems to be very much alive here when you read his posts again. At least he will never have to put up with more threads about curly pows!

I shall miss his irreverent and lively posts - much love to Karen and the family in their sad loss.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Wesley S
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 06:55 PM

What a huge loss to everyone who knew him. If there is a better place - I'm sure he's there already.

Thanks for everything Pat.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Crowhugger
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 08:32 PM

So sorry for your loss Karen. And for Mudcat's loss. R.I.P., Spaw.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: John Hardly
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 10:23 PM

The truest light to ever brighten the Mudcat. My sincerest respects to one of the most creative minds I've ever had the privilege of sharing thoughts with.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 21 Jun 14 - 10:36 PM

thanks Amergin for starting the search thru the 2680 results for 'Cletus' on Mudcat

sandra

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Amos
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 12:35 AM

Set the sails...splice the mainbrace...plot a course for the sun.

Spaw , 24 May 2014

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: wysiwyg
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 07:00 AM

RIP Pat.

~Greg and Susan

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Frug
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 09:51 AM

I never thought that I could have felt so affected by the loss of an internet friend .... Wow !!

I regret that I never had the opportunity to meet Spaw, RIP buddy, my condolences to Karen and the rest of your family ...

Frank, Sassy and Boys

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 10:38 AM

Really wishing with all may heart that there is a mudgathering on the other side of life. I don't want to say goodbye to Pat. Heart going out to Karen and family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: RolyH
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 12:25 PM

So sad. R.I.P.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: gnu
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 01:26 PM

I have been trying for about 45 minutes to find an online obit that I can sign and comment on but not even a search for same in his hometown has worked. Anyone?

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 02:49 PM

So sorry to hear this, RIP Spaw

Gerry

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Banjo-Flower
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 02:52 PM

Cookie reset above guest was me

Gerry

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 03:39 PM

I mentioned recently that I'd been to see "War Horse".
One of the more moving pieces in that was the singing (by Bob Fox) of a song (arranged by John Tamms):

Faded away like the stars in the morning,
Losing their light in the glorious sun—
Thus would we pass from this earth and its toiling,
Only remembered for what we have done.

Only remembered, only remembered,
Only remembered for what we have done;
Thus would we pass from this earth and its toiling,
Only remembered for what we have done.

Horses and men, plowshares and traces,
The line on the land and the paths of the sun.
Season by season we mark nature's graces.
Only remembered for what we have done.

Only remembered, only remembered,
Only remembered for what we have done;
Season by season we mark nature's graces.
Only remembered for what we have done.

You can hear a version Here

A good farewell to any man!

Cheers Spaw.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: mayomick
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 03:58 PM

a great loving spoofer rip

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: gnu
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 04:18 PM

Here is the link for the obit. Thanks BM.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat
From: Joe Offer
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 05:08 PM

Funeral home obituaries have a habit of disappearing, so I wanted to post the text of the obituary along with a photo Bill D sent me.

SHERIDAN FUNERAL HOME Patrick Patterson (June 8, 1949 - June 20, 2014) Patrick F. Patterson, 65, of Bremen, passed away Friday, June 20, 2014 at Mt. Carmel East Hospital. He was born on June 8, 1949 to the late Walter J. and Margery Pittis Patterson. Patrick loved sailing, motorcycles, and music. He is survived by wife, Karen Wyatt Patterson; sons, Michael and Tristan. No services will be observed. Arrangements were under the care of Sheridan Funeral Home.

Pat "Catspaw" Patterson Died 20 June 2014 Photo by Bill Day

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Janie
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 05:36 PM

Thanks, gnu, and thanks, Joe.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 07:29 PM

& from me

sandra

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Sandy Mc Lean
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 08:45 PM

My deepest sympathy to his family! Another Mudcat light has gone out leaving only fond memories of a great wag!

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Don Firth
Date: 22 Jun 14 - 10:30 PM

When I first posted sometime in 1999, Spaw was the first to welcome me aboard and invite me to stay around. His messages could sometimes get a bit colorful, but he in any discussion, he did have a knack for hitting the bullseye. I'm going to miss him a lot.

'Bye, Spaw. Thanks for the welcome and the kind words.

Don Firth

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Hollowfox
Date: 23 Jun 14 - 12:04 AM

Everything posted above is true, so I'm not going to repeat the words already spoken, if I can. Pat was a lot like Bruce Phillips, and Spaw was a lot like Utah Phillips. The former were loving souls; patient, erudite, deep thinking, and caring about the important things while appreciating the small unnoticed beautiful details of this world.
Some few years ago, he and I arranged to meet in a small town we both knew, about the same distance from our homes. My kids couldn't make it, but Karen and the boys did. We all had a good time, and he showed himself to be such a good dad with those two bouncy boys in a diner booth. He'd remarked in a post that he was really kind of a quiet guy in real life, but he showed that he enjoyed a good visit with the best of them.
A couple of years ago, my daughter Amy and I were able to visit them all at Chez Patterson, but the only day we could do it was on Easter. What a lovely home! (it goes beyond "a nice house", and I think that Karen must simply forbid dust.) We didn't feel like we were intruding (I was a bit worried about that), and before we left, we saw the actual original possum ocarina, Cletus himself. We had so much fun we imposed ourselves on them the next Easter.

In reading all of these posts, one thing hasn't really been mentioned. Spaw was no fool, he knew that he was important and influential here. But he never alluded to it, and never threw his weight around, Unless he told one of us to get our fat ass out of a hospital bed, or something.

WYSIWIG was kind enough to call me this morning (many thanks) to let me know about all of this, and then I went to church. The first hymn was called And Are We Yet Alive, and I nearly bust out laughing/crying through the whole song. Thhanks, Spaw.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Heather Fielding
Date: 23 Jun 14 - 01:54 AM

I am so saddened by this news, Pat had been ill so many times and beaten it I thought he'd go on forever...

Karen, Michael and Tristan, I'm so sorry for your loss.

Heather

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: bbc
Date: 23 Jun 14 - 02:39 AM

Hollowfox & Heather--how wonderful to hear from you! Thanks for sharing the obit, Joe! Karen, continuing to hold you in thought & prayer!

Much love,

Barbara

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: My guru always said
Date: 23 Jun 14 - 05:41 AM

Back after a weekend away and so sorry to find this news. Spaw fought well and made a difference. Hugs to Karen and the family. Candle lit.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Fortunato
Date: 23 Jun 14 - 01:06 PM

Hey, Max. Look what the Mudcat has done for all of us, the friends of 'Spaw. It's created a reality in which we began as virtual friends and often progressed to friendships beyond the web, in the flesh, and as some believe, beyond the grave.

Remarkable.

thanks.

Chance

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Uncle Phil
Date: 23 Jun 14 - 07:22 PM

Condolences to Pat's Ohio family and to all of his extended Mudcat family. I hope they like fart jokes in heaven or wherever it is that the really, really good ones go.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Janie
Date: 23 Jun 14 - 11:58 PM

It really is remarkable, Chance. Thanks for pointing that out.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Bardford
Date: 25 Jun 14 - 01:09 AM

Thanks, Spaw. You done good here, and you will be missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Bugsy
Date: 26 Jun 14 - 09:51 PM

I'm so, so sad. I feel I've lost a good friend that I never met.

Love and Condolences to Karen and the family.

He was "One of a kind"

Bugsy

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Rapparee
Date: 27 Jun 14 - 10:01 AM

It's a helluva note when Fielding needs help laying about! Must have gotten a big job!

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Donuel
Date: 27 Jun 14 - 01:00 PM

Spaw has become the ultimate extreme party pooper of all time.

He knew what was funny and what was kind without all the fear and loathing crap. What loathing he expressed I found to always be to the point, up front, fair, truthful and just.

He made pessimistic cynics like me laugh and angels like you cry, for all the best reasons.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: The Sandman
Date: 27 Jun 14 - 01:45 PM

The fact so many people have had something good to say about him, says it all.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: John on the Sunset Coast
Date: 27 Jun 14 - 02:32 PM

Not fair, not fair. He was one of the good guys. RIP 'Spaw.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: wysiwyg
Date: 05 Jul 14 - 02:49 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,JTT
Date: 06 Jul 14 - 09:23 AM

Ar slí na fírinne atá sé anois. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Jul 14 - 11:54 AM

He reached out to a lot of people, me included, over the years. His subtle support was perhaps hidden by his over-the-top humor on the forum. It will be missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Bobert
Date: 06 Jul 14 - 01:18 PM

Danged...

Guess I'm late to the party here...

The world, and this community, are a lot poorer now... Not only was "The Spawzer" one heck of a loving man but one hell of a story teller and...

...both are hard to come by...

God Speed, Spawzer... You enriched my life...

See you down the road and we'll swap a few lies...

Bobert

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Janie
Date: 06 Jul 14 - 10:12 PM

Damn, I miss him. How many of us has he reached out to personally over the years with his deep caring and compassion? And one might never guess that about him simply from his public posts and wonderful storytelling.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: freda underhill
Date: 06 Jul 14 - 11:07 PM

..another one late to the news.. shocked, 'Spaw smashed me at online Scrabble, made me laugh with his wonderful mudhumour, and was a true scatalogical gentleman. 'Spaw, it's not right to write of you in the past tense, you light up the sky like a mudcomet. Love and best wishes to Karen and sons, we can only feel a little of your sorrow.

freda

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 06 Jul 14 - 11:52 PM

Late catching up, like Freda. Another brick gone, so sorry to hear it. Easy travels, Spaw...

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: ClaireBear
Date: 07 Jul 14 - 06:05 PM

I learned of this early on, but have been hurting so much I didn't even feel up to opening this thread until today.

Spaw, I never met you, but you were the first to greet me when I (finally) joined up, and I felt close to you for that and many other reasons, including some you never knew. Or maybe you did; I can't say -- you were very canny, though you hid it well betimes.

Anyway goodbye, old friend I never met. The old homestead won't be the same without you. Fear no more.

Jeni who used to be Claire

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Roger in Baltimore
Date: 08 Jul 14 - 05:44 PM

I have not been a regular on the Cat in the last few years. It's harder, because I don't want a computer at home. My current employer used to allow access to the Cat, but it cut that off a few years ago.

When I think of the Cat, I also think of Spaw. I miss that I never got to meet him. I tried to encourage him to attend a FSGW Getaway a few times, with no luck.

Spaw was one of the early Catters. My impression of him was of a man with a big heart who was sometimes hesitant to show it.

Spaw once asked if his sense of humor was too "over the top" for the Cat. Of course it wasn't. I told him that to squeeze the last humor from a topic, it meant you have clearly offended someone. I felt the offense was the fault of the listener, not the humorist.

I remember that Spaw had multiple serious medical problems and I think he benefited from the kindness of the Cat, both in word and deed.

I've met some older people who complained about living so long; all their friends has passed on. I doubt of Spaw felt that way. It is at times like this that I feel that feeling myself, but I still keep pushing for more time on earth. I've learned I can keep on making new friends until I run out of people.

I will raise a toast to Spaw. I expect we will talk about him at the next Getaway.

May we all do as well in our interactions with others as Spaw did with us.

Roger in Baltimore

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Bill D
Date: 08 Jul 14 - 05:50 PM

Spaw 'almost' came to a Getaway once... it was, I think, our first year at Camp Ramblewood. They had, or were hoping to rent, a camper. He was trying to juggle kids who were much younger and both his & Karen's schedules. (I suppose one could search the threads and find that discussion.) It just didn't work out and then his medical problems began....

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Sheila
Date: 09 Jul 14 - 12:55 AM

One of the first posts I read on Mudcat concerned someone in England sending bicycle wheels to someone in Ohio, and the mention of a global music community. Over the years I have come to know these people by name (see above, Gervase).

Spaw's many posts were unique in every way and always caught my eye. They were must reading whether uproarious, supportive or contemplative. He had....style. One of a kind. Made the world a richer place.

My deepest condolences.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Genie
Date: 09 Jul 14 - 06:02 AM

I wish there was a "like" button here at Mudcat so I could easily say how much I appreciate and second so many of the warm, positive, real expressions of appreciation for Pat 'Spaw Patterson by so many other Mudcatters.    I am still so sad that Spaw is no longer with us here in body, glad that he is no longer in pain, and grateful to have known him, albeit only online, for over a decade.

Genie

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 09 Jul 14 - 07:48 AM

My birthday was June 9th -- Spaw and I were born a day apart in the same year.

My birthday this year was very hard for me...the first year in 34 that Tom (Curmudgeon) didn't share it with me. I had trouble even thinking about it; no matter how fleeting the thought, the tears would come. I ended up spending most of the day in quiet contemplation, reading the Mudcat birthday threads for me that Tom had started and the thread he started when I broke my arm five years ago.

Besides Tom's comments, there were posts by Catspaw...Barry Finn...Katlaughing...

They will ALWAYS be part of the Mudcat community.

Linn

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Pete Jennings
Date: 09 Jul 14 - 12:32 PM

RIP, Spaw. King 'catter.

Pete

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: gnu
Date: 09 Jul 14 - 03:39 PM

Genie... Like

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Guest from Sanity
Date: 10 Jul 14 - 02:25 AM

To Karen,

If He lives till age shall scatter,
May the frost be upon his head,
I'll love him as much, and just the same,
As the morning we were wed,
But if the angels call him,
And he goes to heaven before,
I'll know him when I see him,
For he'll kiss me at the door!

I just now found out.

You WILL see him again.

I had a quadruple bi-pass almost two years ago, where I died on the table, but was revived. That being said, while I was 'gone', I went to a 'place', and I did not want to come back here. The doctors even told my family, that they felt I was resisting 'coming back'....
..all I can say, is, 'You WILL see him again.'....and that is not a metaphor!

Use this time to prioritize, the highest things, values, compassion and love, first....it will make perfect sense later.

Guest from Sanity

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,highlandman at work
Date: 10 Jul 14 - 01:29 PM

Belated farewell, Spaw... another great one gone on ahead. -Glenn

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: kendall
Date: 11 Jul 14 - 07:16 AM

His passing reminds me of John McCutcheon's song, Old Brown's head light.

"We knew it was coming, but it still don't seem right,now, they're closing the the old Brown's Head Light."

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: olddude
Date: 11 Jul 14 - 09:52 PM

Pats wife Karen called yesterday. She and the boys are holding up but it is very difficult. He adored her and she him. Pat was loved by so many people. He did good in this thing called life

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Charley Noble
Date: 11 Jul 14 - 10:00 PM

Indeed he did!

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Janie
Date: 11 Jul 14 - 10:07 PM

Thanks Dan.

Renewing ((((((((((((((((Karen, Michael, Tristan}}}}}}}}}}}}}}

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: wysiwyg
Date: 21 Jul 14 - 09:57 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,wdyat12
Date: 27 Jul 14 - 09:36 PM

Goodbye Catspaw49.

Peter Woodruff

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Kim C
Date: 28 Jul 14 - 03:25 PM

Kicking myself because I'm a month late hearing about this. Spaw was one of my favorite Internet friends and I'm sorry I never got to meet him in person. :-(

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat
From: GUEST,Lin in Kansas
Date: 05 Sep 14 - 08:43 AM

This has NOT been a good day. I've been pity-partying because it would have been John's and my 21st anniversary, and then when I opened the 'Cat to post the annual Walnut Valley thread, I see this. As so many of the people above, I never met 'Spaw in person, but his hysterically funny posts were the reason I joined Mudcat years ago, and I caught John laughing out loud at some of them several times. Missing both these guys so much.

(
Belated) love to Karen and the kids. Screen too blurry to type now...

Lin

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: maeve
Date: 05 Sep 14 - 08:49 AM

It's good to see you posting, Lin- Spaw's thread makes my heart jump each time I see it reappear. I can imagine the shock when you have suddenly seen it, and when you are already grieving for John. May remembered laughter bring light to a dark day.

Thinking of you as you live your life, and in respect for your courage in doing so,

Maeve

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 05 Sep 14 - 02:38 PM

Lin, I, too, am glad to see your post. Let those tears out. John and Spaw are both missed here, as are Kat and many others.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Jaze
Date: 05 Sep 14 - 09:47 PM

Geez, it's happened again. I don't check in here too often and again I come and find another great Mudcatter is gone. Spaw was always funny, always irreverent and always kind. He will be sorely missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: gnu
Date: 06 Sep 14 - 05:58 PM

What maeve said. Sniff.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: An Pluiméir Ceolmhar
Date: 13 May 15 - 07:50 PM

Drifted away from the Mudcat a few years ago for reasons I won't go into now.

But, having created a new thread in the hope of drawing on the vast talent pool that is the Mudcat, I mooched around a bit to see what familiar faces were currently posting. Didn't find too many, but that's in the nature of an organic community like this. George Washington's ax (as you colonials call a hatchet).

Then I found a link to this thread, and was greatly saddened, as Spaw was one of those Mudcat institutions whose real-life name I never even guessed, but who was always within a keystroke of contributing to any discussion, musical or frivolous/serious: the people who made Mudcat what it probably still is, even if he didn't think so any more.

Si monumentum quaeris, circumspice.

RIP

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson- June 20, 2014
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 May 15 - 10:06 PM

I sure miss his open heart around here.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Bugsy
Date: 14 May 15 - 01:30 AM

you and me both.

Bugsy

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Joe Offer
Date: 14 May 15 - 01:39 AM

Yeah, I still can't believe he's gone. He was the heart and soul of Mudcat.
-Joe-

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Amos
Date: 14 May 15 - 02:37 AM

Better emulated than mourned, if at all possible. The flame of the hearth of the home away from home, I miss him almost every time I return to this stomping' ground.

But the next act is always there waiting for to be delivered, eh?

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Amergin
Date: 14 May 15 - 07:14 AM

I know he would have been pleased for me, with the successes I've been having. He always supported me...and dammit, he could make me laugh no matter how shitty I was feeling.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: olddude
Date: 14 May 15 - 12:19 PM

I miss him so much. My buddy love ya spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Wesley S
Date: 14 May 15 - 12:57 PM

My guess is Spaws reaction to all of this adulation would have been "Gee thanks folks - from the bottom of my BRAAAAAAAAAAAPPPPPPP"

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: gnu
Date: 14 May 15 - 01:48 PM

Ditto all these recent comments... especially Joe and Amos.

Spaw's spirit is still breakin in the wind.

Miss ya, Bud.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: olddude
Date: 14 May 15 - 03:57 PM

All the hours on the phone listening to my fish stories and always pretended to be interested. All the laughing he gave me. He could always make you laugh even when he was so sick

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Roger in BAltimore
Date: 14 May 15 - 05:03 PM

Well damn!!!... Spaw goes back to before my time. He was often off color, but his heart was always there. I never got to meet him face-to-face, but he was an important soul to me.

He wrote once about being concerned about "going over the line" with his humor. I encouraged him to keep it up. Much humor speaks to us when it is loud and brash. But to do humor well, it often pays to cross over some lines to get to the truth.

I have missed Mudcat in past year. I do not have a computer at home (and don't want one). And like Spaw's history, I have focussed on some important medical issues that seem resolved now.

This is a late and long farewell to Spaw, and I truly will miss him on these pages.

Roger in Baltimore

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Steve Parkes
Date: 14 May 15 - 05:22 PM

It's obvious he lives on -- like Kat -- in all our hearts. Can't think of a better memorial.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: CupOfTea
Date: 14 May 15 - 10:05 PM

Yanno, you often think you have the time to meet folks. Spaw was just downstate, and I never met 'im, though he was very Ohio-positive in his kind words to me. I always thought 'someday.'

This resurrected thread and some recent conversations brought home again how lucky I've been to meet some of the Mudcat luminaries, sung with some, fed and hosted a couple,and even luckier in those I've known and cherished in the folk world in real time.

Perhaps there are just too many wonderful people in our orbits for us to have the good fortune to get to know all of them. But even the wee bits of friendly conversation with a great number of fine folks has to add up to a better life, when you tote it all up.

Joanne in Cleveland, the other end of the state

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: gnu
Date: 20 Jun 15 - 07:59 PM

Miss ya, bud.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Bill D
Date: 20 Jun 15 - 10:51 PM

Many miss his wit and cherish the memories of his off-beat way of saying profound stuff... one of a kind...

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,Olddude
Date: 20 Jun 15 - 11:51 PM

I miss him terribly myself gnu. I keep waiting for him to call.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: maeve
Date: 21 Jun 15 - 09:22 PM

Thinking of Pat - and of Karen and their young men on this Father's Day...

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,bbc
Date: 21 Jun 15 - 10:56 PM

It was a little disturbing, when I was, recently, reminded on Facebook that it was his birthday. On the Internet, we never die. Since most of us knew him that way, maybe it's appropriate. There's a spaw-sized hole in my heart.

bbc

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Nigel Paterson
Date: 24 Jun 15 - 07:42 AM

Wish I'd met Pat, face to face. I hope bbc doesn't object, but I too have "...a spaw-sized hole in my heart". Difficult to believe that a year has gone by since his untimely passing,
                                              With Love,
                                                             Nigel.

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 24 Jun 15 - 09:23 AM

Pat (and kat) was very kind (as well as funny!) about my ramblings from Greece. I always think of them as I write .

RtS

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: Peter Kasin
Date: 24 Jun 15 - 04:40 PM

I've haven't been to Mudcat in awhile, and just noticed this thread. I am so saddened. 'Spaw was one of the true "heart and soul of Mudcat" people here, and what a wit. I'm just shocked. My deepest condolences to his family, and to all here who revered him. Mick Lane couldn't have said it any better.

-Chanteyranger

Subject: RE: Obit: Pat "Catspaw49" Patterson - June 20, 2014
From: GUEST,bbc
Date: 24 Jun 15 - 07:58 PM

Nigel, you're welcome to second my thought.

Best always,

barbara