On April 9, 2020, the Riordan community lost a former teacher and colleague, Patrick McCluskey.

He is remembered by Nate Simon ’99, current Dean of Academics as, “one of the most patient and kind human beings I have ever met. He had a way with words that I wish I could emulate; He was always able to say something extremely profound with very few words.”

Early in life, McCluskey studied to be a Jesuit, but before final vows he felt a different calling from God, to be a teacher. At the time, his uncle was the principal at Riordan and gave him a job.

McCluskey taught at Riordan for 38 years; he taught English and Religion. According to Simon, his focus was not on testing, but rather on teaching.

Jeff Isola ’98, social science teacher, remembered McCluskey, “[McCluskey] emphasized the importance of curriculum. He also allowed us, as students, to guide the conversation.”

Outside the classroom, he coached tennis and was a Kairos leader. Being a Kairos leader was his favorite activity. According to his family, “he loved the teamwork, camaraderie, and opportunity to write and deliver words that sparked love, faith, and a deeper connection.”

He also enjoyed journal writing, and used his entries to create writings for use at retreats. Juan Zumbado ’98, Dean of Students, remembers, “he helped make my time at Riordan, through Kairos, a success.”

McCluskey is survived by his wife, Linda Holmes McCluskey, daughter, Erin Holmes McCluskey, and his granddaughter, Darcy Alice Wheeler.