William "PAT" Patrick Killalea's Obituary
Killalea, William P. (Pat), age 88, Pat, the only son and youngest of three children of Andrew (Bill), and Laura Killalea, died on March 25, 2016 after a brief illness. He was born and raised in Minneapolis, MN where he attended Holy Rosary grade school, St. Thomas Military Academy and the University of Minnesota where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Pat interrupted his college education to serve his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War where he worked in 14th Base Post Office in Yong Dong Po, Korea.
Pat joined Honeywell in 1951 and had a successful career spanning over 41 years, working on several innovative and historical aerospace industry programs, including the X-15, Apollo, and Space Shuttle, receiving numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions.
Pat met his future bride, Mary Catherine (Marrin), through their attendance at Holy Rosary Church. They were married June 6, 1953, and would spend the next 63 years together as a loving couple raising their family through both the good times and the tough times.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children; Bill (Geri), Tim (Debbie), Joe (Mary Rita), Tom, Mary Elizabeth, Paul (Audrea) and grandchildren, Megan, John, Katie, Lindsey, J.J., Cathy, Shawn, Mike, Cecilia, Kelly, Kyle, and great grandchildren Kylee, Erin, Alexander, Javonni and Ryleigh.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his two sisters, Lennis Killalea and Kathryn Lyons, his sons Dennis, James, John and daughter Margaret Ann, granddaughter Elizabeth Ann Killalea, great granddaughter Teagan Carter.
He was an avid reader, follower of U.S. politics and a devout catholic. Pat was a loving, dedicated husband, father and grandpa who will be missed by his family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation in Pat's name can be made to the charity of your choice.
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