After a courageous and valiant four-year battle with Renal Cell Carcinoma, Patrick Penrose passed away in peace at his home on Saturday, April 27, 2013. He was the owner of Penrose Fine Carpentry, specializing in historical restoration and revitalization of the treasures of Galveston. In 1976 when Patrick moved to the island from Union City, New Jersey he worked at the Galveston Wharves Railroad where he developed lifelong friendships and relationships. As a carpenter, he was integral in the Strand Restoration Projects in the 1970’s, mentored by Jim Studebaker. Patrick enjoyed a respected reputation as a resource for projects interested in maintaining historical beauty and integrity throughout the island. Some of the projects Patrick was involved with include the restoration of the 1894 Opera House, Garten Verein, The Moody Mansion (for which he was the “General” after Hurricane Ike), The Darraugh House, Rosenberg Library, and The Landis House. Patrick and his crew were in demand and worked to restore many East End historical homes after the devastation of Hurricane Ike in 2008. He worked closely with the Historical Foundation in Galveston on the restoration of The Customs House, The Jefferson League Building, and The Arts Center on the Strand. All of Patrick’s accomplishments are too numerous to list but remain as a testament to his legacy on the island. Patrick was involved with all of his many projects until his passing.
Patrick was an alumni of the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Health Care Administration but remained in the carpentry industry, his life’s work.
He enjoyed fishing with his family and numerous family outings and playing with his children. Patrick remained active in working out at the gym.
Patrick was closely involved with his children and all the activities they were involved with including East End Little League, Galveston Catholic School fundraising and educational activities, and the Cub Scouts. Patrick was always” the guy you could count on” when things needed to get done.
Patrick is preceded in death by his cousin, Thomas Parani.
Patrick is survived by his parents, William and Vera Penrose of Union City, New Jesery; his wife, Kathy Penrose; daughter, Kilcey Penrose; sons, William Penrose III , Christopher Penrose, Andrew Penrose; sisters, Marybeth Peters, Melissa Triekle and Faith Brandt; brothers, Mark Penrose, Matthew Penrose and Jon Penrose; other family members; Bryan and Sharon Hicks along with their children, Sean, Scott, and Hannah; and friends, Doug McLean, Howard Paige, Frances Carvey and all of their families.
A special thanks to Gabe Rodriguez and his family, Mary Hoehne and the Moody Mansion Family, and all of the wonderful friends and coworkers involved with the “Friends of Patrick Penrose” organization. The family wants to thank everyone for their love and support.
Visitation will be held at 5:00 PM on Thursday, May 2, 2013 at Malloy & Son Funeral Home followed by a memorial service 6:30 PM.