Patrick W. McGonigle

Patrick W. McGonigle of Powell, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on August 15, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on July 6, 1938, in Columbus, Ohio, Patrick, affectionately known as "Dad" and "Papa," lived a life filled with faith, family, entrepreneurship, adventure, and stories that will be retold for generations. Patrick was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Jean McGonigle; his sons, Stephen W. and Craig M. McGonigle; his parents, Elwood P. and Louise E. McGonigle; his sisters, Jeannine Trump, Mary Reinhard, and Corlyn Neff; and his brother, Elwood "Woody" McGonigle. He is survived by his children, Deborah (Paul) Gabriel of Powell, Ohio; Michael P. McGonigle of Grove City, Ohio; Donna (Russell) Harris of Atlanta, Georgia; Kimberly (Tom) Straub of Knoxville, Tennessee; Kevin (Debbie) McGonigle of Norcross, Georgia; and Trish (Kevin) Neal of Cumming, Georgia; along with his sisters, Ann Van Hoose of Plain City, Ohio, and Martha Salyer of Columbus, Ohio. He also leaves behind his cherished 21 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews, all of whom brought him tremendous pride and joy. Raised in Columbus, Ohio, Patrick met the love of his life, Shirley, and together they began building a remarkable life in 1956. While working full-time and raising a family, he attended evening classes at Franklin University, reflecting the determination and work ethic that would define him throughout his life. Patrick possessed an entrepreneurial spirit and an endless curiosity about the world. Throughout his career he wore many hats, including real estate broker, homebuilder, filmmaker, businessman, and oil and gas professional. He never stopped pursuing new opportunities, learning new industries, and seeking the next challenge. Among his many accomplishments, Patrick wrote and produced the award-winning documentary Where Jesus Walked in 1985, earning Gold and Platinum awards. He later produced and distributed family and children's entertainment and, together with his son Stephen, created the PBS children's television series The Reppies. In 1997, he received an Emmy Award for The Reppies as Best Children's Series, as well as the Film Advisory Board Award for Excellence in Film Production. While Patrick achieved success in many ventures, those who knew him best will remember him most for the joy he brought to everyday life. He had a wonderful sense of humor and never met a story he wasn't willing to tell. Family gatherings often became the stage for one of Patrick's tales, delivered with wit, timing, and detail that could keep everyone laughing and listening long after the story should have ended. We always knew we were in for a treat when we saw the twinkle in his eyes. Whether recounting experiences from his business adventures, childhood memories, or lessons learned along the way, he had a gift for bringing people together through conversation. Patrick was also a lifelong reader with a special love for Western novels and spy thrillers. Rarely without a book nearby, he devoured stories of adventure, courage, and intrigue. On fall Saturdays, another passion took center stage: Ohio State football. He proudly cheered for the Buckeyes and enjoyed sharing the excitement of game day with family and friends. In 2000, Patrick returned to the oil and gas industry as a leasing consultant and landman, continuing his work through McGonigle Energy LLC and Source Rock Exploration until his retirement in 2014. Despite his many professional accomplishments, Patrick often said that his greatest achievement and legacy was his family. He was most proud of Shirley, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family. Their successes brought him joy, their struggles earned his support, and their love sustained him throughout his life. They truly were everything to him. Patrick was a devoted Christian and a member of Saint Joan of Arc Catholic Church. He lived with deep faith and looked forward to the promise of eternal life. At his request, his urn will be interred at Resurrection Cemetery in Columbus, Ohio, beside his beloved wife Shirley and sons Stephen and Craig. Visitation will be held at Rutherford Funeral Home at Powell, Powell, Ohio, on Wednesday, September 2, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Patrick's Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated on Thursday, September 3, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Powell. While our hearts ache in his absence, we find peace knowing he has been reunited with Shirley, Stephen, Craig, and those who went before him. We can only imagine him sharing stories, making everyone laugh, and proudly cheering on the Buckeyes from his seat in heaven.

Patrick W. McGonigle

July 6, 1938 - August 15, 2026