Patrick McNally

A people person with an adventurous spirit, Patrick McNally, whose nickname was "The Babe," was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. A hard worker who savored any amount of time he spent surrounded by his loved ones, he was a genuine person through and through. The first to tell a joke, talk for hours, and leave others to feel special in his presence, Patrick had a gift for connecting with others. Gone too soon, he leaves behind a wonderful collection of memories that will remain special to his close family and many friends for generations to come.

Reflecting back on the year 1954, Ireland’s economy continued to grow. This was the first Marion year, a great Catholic event where more than 30,000 marched through Dublin, and the last year for legal executions held in Ireland. During these optimistic times, Patrick was born to Phillip and Patricia Reilly on December 26th in Dublin. Not long after, George and Patricia McNally adopted him from the orphanage and brought him to live in America at the age of two years old. They felt blessed to have him in their lives.

Patrick spent his growing years finding some mischief and seeking thrills. A beautiful girl, Francine, caught his eye in high school and he pursued her for many months. His persistence paid off when she reluctantly agreed to a date! Exactly eight dates from that night they had their first kiss. From that moment on, she was in love with Patrick’s charming personality. After they married, they raised three wonderful sons: Tony, Patrick, and Stephen.

As a family, they shared many happy memories. Patrick was very active in his children's lives. He enjoyed coaching their baseball and football teams during their growing years and never missed any of their special events. He taught them to enjoy life in addition to a great work ethic. They always knew he had their backs and would truly drop everything to support them. A strong provider, Patrick worked long hours providing for his family. He was a proud member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 357 since the 1970s. Over the years, he was a steadfast employee at C.L. Mahoney Company. Revered as a loyal employee and generous man, everyone knew him and loved to take the time to listen to him share a story or his wisdom as an experienced pipefitter. As a result of his dedication to his many years working in the field and as a union member, both as a worker and as a dad, he was trustworthy and always steady. Everyone knew where he stood on issues and exactly what they were getting with him.

As hard as he worked, he played equally as hard. He and Francine enjoyed spending time together and traveling over the years. They were blessed with a beautiful family. Their grandchildren were their everything. They called him Papa and loved to listen to his funny stories and catchphrases. They will cherish the many special moments they shared. When it came to sports, Patrick only cheered for one team; the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. Whenever you were with him during a game on TV you knew that at any moment Patrick could toss a chair or two when the game got the best of him! He was a loyal fan and by default, any guest of his home was too! Patrick found his favorite times were singing Oldies and hosting parties with friends. He loved to move and act out the music ensuring a good time was had whenever he was around! In recent years, he and his lovely bride vacationed in Daytona, Florida. He loved the shoreline and spending time with Francine away from the harsh winters. It is impossible to think about Patrick and not smile. He never took a single day for granted. Sadly, he is gone, yet will never be forgotten. Patrick’s wonderful sense of humor, positive outlook on life, and charismatic personality will surely be missed by his loved ones. May they always remember his kindness and love and may his memories live on in their hearts forevermore.

Patrick McNally, age 67, of Kalamazoo, MI died on April 15, 2022. Patrick was preceded in death by his sister, Kathleen Calvey; his adopted parents, George and Patricia McNally, and his biological dad, Phillip Reilly. Surviving are his wife, Francine; three sons: Tony (Kristy) McNally and their children: Rylan, Kellan, and Gavin; Patrick (Jodie) McNally and their children: Kaylie, Sean; and Stephen (Meggin) McNally and their children: Boston, Kyla, and Brody. Also surviving are his sister, Maureen Boston; brother, David McNally; many special nieces and nephews; and siblings by birth, and his birth mom, Patricia Reilly, who he recently found and connected with back in Ireland. Cremation has taken place. Please join us for a Life Story Visitation where food, drinks, and stories will be shared Monday (APR 25) 4-6 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, (269) 375-2900. Family and friends are invited to The Hanger immediately following the visitation at 4301 W Main St., Kalamazoo. Visit Patrick’s webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories and photos and to sign his guestbook.