Patrick William Hook

Mar 23, 1951 -

Apr 3, 2022

Pat was an extremely intelligent individual, brilliant mechanic and a witty, helpful, caring, thoughtful man. He spent the past 25 years as Port Engineer for Kenai Fjords Tours in Seward, Alaska, where he could be seen walking the docks in the small boat harbor toting heavy tools, some which he invented, and always offering a smile, kind word and funny quip about life in general. He would offer to help absolutely anyone with a problem, sharing his skills, wealth of knowledge, expertise and time, expecting nothing in return, although a six-pack of Lucky Beer was always appreciated. Many folks believed Pat could fix anything, some say even the Space Shuttle. His work encompassed keeping all the marine vessels running in prime condition, maintaining the vehicle fleet and the mechanical operations at Fox Island Wilderness Lodge. Not only did he help build the structures at Fox Island, but he also introduced one-of-a-kind water systems, solar power, wind generation and environmentally friendly practices. For these efforts, in 2016 he received the highest honor Xcellence Award for Environmental Stewardship.

Pat took great pride in being an integral part of providing the opportunity for thousands of visitors from all over the world to safely experience the wonders and beauty of Kenai Fjords, Denali and Yosemite National Parks. Prior to plying his trade near the waters of Resurrection Bay, Pat spent more than 10 years at Denali National Park, where he and his colleagues were affectionately and respectfully addressed as Shop Scum. Pat was revered for his endless knowledge and ability to fix anything with limited resources.

Pat also spent two winters working in the Heavy Equipment Shop in Antarctica at McMurdo Station. It was here he became an avid Ernest Shackleton fan. Pat was able to pay his respects to Shackleton at his grave on South Georgia Island in November.

Pat graduated from the University of California Davis with a degree in biological sciences and chemistry where, as with anywhere he went, he made lifelong lasting friendships.

Pat was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Frederick Hook; and brother, Fred. He is survived by his wife, Kathy; their kitty, Enzo; mother, Mary; sisters, Kathleen, Jenny and Marianne; brother, Matt; and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of gifts or flowers, please donate in Pat's behalf to "Doctors Without Borders," doctorswithoutborders.org; or "The Carter Center," www.cartercenter.org. Keeping true to his spirit, Pat planned his "Boat Party" memorial three days prior to his death. This will take place Sunday, June 26, 2022, at 6 p.m., on Resurrection Bay. To reserve a place on the boat, please contact Mary at 907-224-4545. To quote Sir Ernest Shackleton, "Fortitudine Vincimus" translated as "Through Endurance, We Conquer."