Patrick "Pat" J. Hitchcock

ORISKANY – Patrick “Pat” J. Hitchcock, age 58, passed away on Friday, December 27, 2024, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. He passed peacefully with his loving family by his side. Born in Rome, NY, on December 16, 1966, Patrick was the son of the late Harold and Beatrice (Malorzo) Hitchcock. He was a graduate of Rome Free Academy/Class of 1985. Upon graduation, Pat immediately began working for Rome Strip Steel, which would later become Worthington Industries, where he dedicated himself for over 35 years. He made many lifelong friendships and was known as the jokester of the crew. After years of honing his skills, he was the go-to guy for training new hires. On October 19, 1991, Pat united in marriage with Deborah “Debbie” DiAndrea. He was a man of commitment, or as Debbie would say, her “man of steel.” The couple bonded over their love of the outdoors and took every opportunity they could to be outside together, enjoying outdoor rock concerts, boating on Oneida Lake, and vacationing at Stony Point. Their love for each other and the life they built made their home the “fun house” for all their family and friends to gather. Pat was an easy-going gentleman and huge outdoorsman. He always took a chance to hunt or fish whenever the opportunity presented itself, and some of his fondest memories were teaching his children these favorite pastimes. It was in these moments that he found true happiness. Remembering times spent at the “hunting camp” with his family and friends, fueled him until the next hunting season. Pat loved bowling and participated in local men’s leagues in Rome. He even received a ring for bowling a 299, one of his proudest accomplishments. Pat was a devoted family man who put his family first. He always made time for family game nights and enjoyed Sunday dinner at his in-laws. He was actively involved in his children’s extra-curricular activities whether on the field or supporting them in the stands. Pat was the scout leader for his son, Zach’s troop and held the position all the way through Zach achieving his Eagle Scout Award. He could be found in the audience cheering on Zach’s band or watching his daughter, Ally’s dance recitals. Pat also spent countless hours with Ally, watching their favorite movies, Scrooge or WALL-E. One of their favorite activities was playing the skill crane, winning on almost every machine they encountered. Pat considered his loyal canine companion Mocha a big part of the family. Playing with her and cuddling with her brought him great joy. Pat’s sense of humor lasted until his final moments, joking with the nurses, family, and friends who stood by his side, often threatening everyone with a loving “crack.” If Pat was around, it was hard not to smile. In addition to his good-humored personality, he was one of the most accepting people you could meet. He held space for everyone to be themselves and was always happy to meet someone new. Pat is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie DiAndrea-Hitchcock; son, Zachary Hitchcock; and daughter, Allison Hitchcock and her fiancé Anthony Taro; sister and brother-in-law, Linda and Greg Tyksinski; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Joseph and Shirley DiAndrea; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Darlene and Joseph Basi; a special niece, Samantha Basi; special nephews, Joey Basi, and Salvatore Basi along with many nieces and nephews. Pat’s life would not have been the same without his close friends, Chris Carpenter, Scott Jaynes, Rob Lopez, Dan Younkin, Wendy Kurlowicz and Jodi (Chudy) Luce; and his beloved dog, Mocha. Pat was predeceased by his other canine companions, Spooky, and Shady Lady. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Wynn Hospital for their care and compassion. Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Pat’s honor may be made to the American Cancer Society online at https://www.cancer.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Patrick’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St.

Patrick "Pat" J. Hitchcock

December 16, 1966 - December 27, 2024