ETA: Thank you everyone for your kindness and compassion. I didn't expect a response, much less so many, y'all are amazing, I think he would be touched by and grateful for your comments.

IDK if this is ok, my uncle died, and drumming and drums were constants in his life even after he had to give his kit up. And I just wanted to share my thoughts please.

My favorite drummer was never in a band beyond high school, but his enthusiasm for playing never waned

My favorite drummer once had his full kit on the back cover of a drummer's mag, I (was 8) thought that made him a rock star and I asked him to sign it, he signed it, then he framed it and hung it up

My favorite drummer let countless neices and nephews play on his kit and encouraged us to keep making noise, even when I splintered up his favorite sticks he smiled at me and showed me how to hold them better

My favorite drummer didn't have kids, but he supported his old HS band program and his musically-inclined niblings in every way he could.

My favorite drummer passed away and I miss him. His brothers miss him. His friends miss him.

RIP Pat