Patrick Babin
A life that touches others, lasts forever.
Patrick was adored as a wonderful, devoted husband and father, the loving heartbeat of our family, a kind soul, a generous spirit. He filled our home with fun and laughter, he surrounded us with love and showed it in a thousand quiet ways.
Patrick was also a very private person. He didn’t share his feelings easily. He struggled with thoughts and emotions that he didn’t fully understand, but believed he was stronger than his depression, stronger than his illness. His love for his family was beyond measure so we are broken trying to understand how his darkness could be stronger than his love, how leaving us was the only solution.
While our family is taking time with this sudden change to our lives, we hope that you will keep Patrick gently in your hearts and remember him fondly as the loving, caring and selfless person that we knew him always to be. We ask kindly that you share your favourite memories and stories of Patrick so that we may add them to our special moments.
With love and gratitude,
Michelle, Mikayla, Brandon and Nicky.
Timeline
1964
February 25th
Born in Noumea
New Caledonia
1971
Arrived in Australia
Arriving with his mother, Patrick lived and went to school in Redcliffe, Queensland.
1979
Queensland Junior Cycling Champion
Patrick won the Junior Cycling Championship, and while he stopped competing to join the Navy, he always kept his passion for the sport.
1980
Joined the Navy
Patrick joined the Royal Australian Navy as a junior recruit when he was 16 years old. While enjoying life on the HMAS Stalwart and the HMAS Swan, sea sickness eventually forced a move to the Air Force.
1985
Joined the Air Force
Patrick transferred to the RAAF base Williamtown, in NSW, with a later posting to RAAF base in Richmond, working in safety equipment and maintenance.
1986
Met his true love
Patrick and Michelle had a chance encounter at a gym, it was love at first sight and they were inseparable from the moment they met.
1987
First home
So much excitement as they built their first home together.
1988
March 26th
Married his true love
Patrick and Michelle were married at the Christ Church Cathedral in Newcastle.
1994
December
Birth of Mikayla
Our first child, a beautiful baby girl. Patrick didn't know it then, but she would follow him into teaching. He was so genuinely proud of the beautiful person that he watched her grow into.
1996
Career Change
Patrick started studying a science degree at the University of Newcastle, majoring in geology. Upon completion he continued studying to become a science teacher. His passion for science and nature was only matched by his enthusiasm to share it.
1999
January
Birth of Brandon
Our second child, a handsome baby boy. Pat would not have expected that he would be followed once more, with his son working in defence. He always felt blessed to have Brandon as a son.
2002
Awarded the Dean's Medal
Patrick received the Dean's Medal in Education and graduated from the University of Newcastle.
2003
Birth of Nicholas
Our third child, another handsome baby boy. Pat was worried that he wouldn't have enough love, but the moment he saw his second son he realised that his love for his children was infinite. Watching them grow into a beautiful family was the greatest privilege of his life.
2005
Change of Scenery
Patrick and his family decided to shake things up and move to Bundaberg, living on acreage and enjoying a sea change.
2013
December
Moved to the Sunshine Coast
Another shake-up with a pack up and a move just in time for Christmas.
2015
Accepted teaching position at Siena Catholic College
Patrick was very excited to commence teaching physics and chemistry at Siena; always saying it was an added blessing to car-pool with his boys who were students there at the time.
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February 23, 2026
Dear Michelle, Mikayla, Brandon and Nicky,
Sending you all my deepest condolences. No words can ease what you’re feeling, but I hope that knowing how loved and respected Pat was brings some comfort in the days ahead.
My memories of Pat are of a man with grace, calm gentleness and an unmatched pride in his family.
When I first met Pat, I remember being in awe of the love and connection he so openly showed to you, Michelle.
He took a genuine interest in everyone and carried himself with the warmth and sincerity of a true gentleman.
May your memories of Pat keep him alive in your hearts. Speak of him often, share his stories, and hold onto the love that will always remain.
All my love today and always x
Sending you all my deepest condolences. No words can ease what you’re feeling, but I hope that knowing how loved and respected Pat was brings some comfort in the days ahead.
My memories of Pat are of a man with grace, calm gentleness and an unmatched pride in his family.
When I first met Pat, I remember being in awe of the love and connection he so openly showed to you, Michelle.
He took a genuine interest in everyone and carried himself with the warmth and sincerity of a true gentleman.
May your memories of Pat keep him alive in your hearts. Speak of him often, share his stories, and hold onto the love that will always remain.
All my love today and always x
February 23, 2026
Below are the words I spoke at the mass we had to honour Patrick at Siena. I miss him very much.
If you heard Patrick and I speaking French, it was never about you. Promise. We were often whingeing, but never malicious. Like clockwork, every term started with him telling me about his latest home improvements. Painting, landscaping, you name it. He loved working on his house.
He also loved travel, and planning trips for his family, like the recent one to New Zealand. He and Ken had many conversations about the best spots to see. These trips away were the only reason he would forego his usual DIY-focussed holidays.
He loved his heritage and talking about his life in New Caledonia. His face would light up speaking French or talking about his country of origin. What I found remarkable was that he left when he was very young but spoke flawless French. He worked hard to maintain this language and connection.
Many of you have described him as a man of few words. When he spoke, you knew it was important. He was thoughtful and would follow up a conversation with an email or a link to provide further information.
Patrick had a sharp intelligence and a cutting understanding of life, global politics and culture, and could speak about art, film and science with authority and curiosity. He was sure of himself but open to the experiences of others.
He was such a gentle, unassuming man who was generous with his time and did his best for his students. He genuinely cared about them. His senior Physics students, especially, appreciated his caring and the effort he put into their learning.
Again, we weren’t talking about you. But I’d like to finish up with a cautionary tale for all of you who speak other languages.
Many years ago, Patrick and I were on a bus accompanying a group to sport, tennis if I remember correctly. We were in the front seat talking about American politics (in French) and how concerned we were about the possibility of Trump winning that first election. The bus driver, right in front of us, piped up IN FRENCH, saying she thought Trump would be a good president. I’ll never forget the open-mouthed, shocked expression he and I shared. With his usual grace, Patrick engaged her respectfully and found common ground. Always the gentleman.
If you heard Patrick and I speaking French, it was never about you. Promise. We were often whingeing, but never malicious. Like clockwork, every term started with him telling me about his latest home improvements. Painting, landscaping, you name it. He loved working on his house.
He also loved travel, and planning trips for his family, like the recent one to New Zealand. He and Ken had many conversations about the best spots to see. These trips away were the only reason he would forego his usual DIY-focussed holidays.
He loved his heritage and talking about his life in New Caledonia. His face would light up speaking French or talking about his country of origin. What I found remarkable was that he left when he was very young but spoke flawless French. He worked hard to maintain this language and connection.
Many of you have described him as a man of few words. When he spoke, you knew it was important. He was thoughtful and would follow up a conversation with an email or a link to provide further information.
Patrick had a sharp intelligence and a cutting understanding of life, global politics and culture, and could speak about art, film and science with authority and curiosity. He was sure of himself but open to the experiences of others.
He was such a gentle, unassuming man who was generous with his time and did his best for his students. He genuinely cared about them. His senior Physics students, especially, appreciated his caring and the effort he put into their learning.
Again, we weren’t talking about you. But I’d like to finish up with a cautionary tale for all of you who speak other languages.
Many years ago, Patrick and I were on a bus accompanying a group to sport, tennis if I remember correctly. We were in the front seat talking about American politics (in French) and how concerned we were about the possibility of Trump winning that first election. The bus driver, right in front of us, piped up IN FRENCH, saying she thought Trump would be a good president. I’ll never forget the open-mouthed, shocked expression he and I shared. With his usual grace, Patrick engaged her respectfully and found common ground. Always the gentleman.
February 21, 2026
For the past two years I had the privilege of sitting beside Pat in the staff room as his “pod buddy.” We were always the first to arrive, and those quiet early mornings gave us time to talk, laugh and solve the world’s — and Siena’s — problems together. We liked to think that between the two of us, we had the world's problems (and Siena's) pretty much under control. Pat always met those moments with warmth and a ready smile.
Pat often spoke with great love about you, Michelle, and the children. He cherished his travels with you and was so proud of Nicky’s website. We often looked at Nicky’s latest uploads together and shared a laugh. Please keep creating, Nicky — your Dad would have loved that.
I want you to know how deeply Pat was valued at Siena. He was a true gentleman: kind, generous with his time, and always willing to help. Exceptionally intelligent, with a remarkable knowledge of science and physics, he was our much‑respected “physics specialist.”
Pat treated everyone with equal kindness and respect, and his students absolutely adored him. He gave freely of his time to support them, and senior students felt incredibly lucky to have him as their teacher.
He is profoundly missed. The staff room feels different without him, and his absence is felt every day.
My heart goes out to you all. Please know that Pat’s impact here was lasting, and he will be remembered with deep affection for a very, very long time.
Pat often spoke with great love about you, Michelle, and the children. He cherished his travels with you and was so proud of Nicky’s website. We often looked at Nicky’s latest uploads together and shared a laugh. Please keep creating, Nicky — your Dad would have loved that.
I want you to know how deeply Pat was valued at Siena. He was a true gentleman: kind, generous with his time, and always willing to help. Exceptionally intelligent, with a remarkable knowledge of science and physics, he was our much‑respected “physics specialist.”
Pat treated everyone with equal kindness and respect, and his students absolutely adored him. He gave freely of his time to support them, and senior students felt incredibly lucky to have him as their teacher.
He is profoundly missed. The staff room feels different without him, and his absence is felt every day.
My heart goes out to you all. Please know that Pat’s impact here was lasting, and he will be remembered with deep affection for a very, very long time.
February 20, 2026
Dear Michelle, Mikayla, Brandon & Nicky,
Please accept my deepest condolences in the loss of your much loved husband and father. It was an honour to have known Pat for the last 8 years since I started at Siena. We struck up a good rapport from the outset, given our mutual interest in all matters French, my wife also being French born and with her brother, also named Patrick still residing in France.
Pat always had time for a good conversation, love and pride in his family was always so evident. We had a habit of greeting each other daily with our customary "Bonjour Patrick" and "Bonjour Jean". I will miss Pat very much, those regular catch-ups in the staff lunch room or out in the school yard.
Pat had such a wealth of knowledge and we frequently compared notes on all our favourite travel destinations, I appreciated his love for my country of origin New Zealand, and for providing me with so much information on all the best parts of Tasmania to visit, prior to my wife and I travelling there for our first visit 3 years ago.
It was an absolute pleasure and great privilege to have spent time conversing with Pat, I am so profoundly sorry for your loss.
Please accept my deepest condolences in the loss of your much loved husband and father. It was an honour to have known Pat for the last 8 years since I started at Siena. We struck up a good rapport from the outset, given our mutual interest in all matters French, my wife also being French born and with her brother, also named Patrick still residing in France.
Pat always had time for a good conversation, love and pride in his family was always so evident. We had a habit of greeting each other daily with our customary "Bonjour Patrick" and "Bonjour Jean". I will miss Pat very much, those regular catch-ups in the staff lunch room or out in the school yard.
Pat had such a wealth of knowledge and we frequently compared notes on all our favourite travel destinations, I appreciated his love for my country of origin New Zealand, and for providing me with so much information on all the best parts of Tasmania to visit, prior to my wife and I travelling there for our first visit 3 years ago.
It was an absolute pleasure and great privilege to have spent time conversing with Pat, I am so profoundly sorry for your loss.
February 20, 2026
My fondest memories with Dad are of the small things: getting up before dawn to go fishing when we lived in Bundaberg; talking about history for hours; the way he would point out rocks and cliffs whenever we went hiking and talk about the geology that shaped them. I remember the way he'd always make sure there were snacks and water in the car for everyone when we went on a walk. I think about the way he stayed by my side when I was in hospital, just so I knew I wasn't alone. He was like that a lot - always there when it counted, always happy to lend a hand when you needed him.
I think about the years to come, and that he won't be there to see them - and neither will he see the people we'll become. We always talked about going to Europe one day. We wanted to see the cathedrals and castles that filled the history books we talked about so often. We wanted to visit Istanbul and stand on the ruins of ancient walls together.
He won't be there for these moments and my heart breaks for him. I wish he knew how much he was loved; I don't think he understood what a void he would leave behind. Our family will spend a lifetime trying to understand why. I just hope, wherever he might be, that he's found some peace. I like to think he's somewhere quiet and green now, by the sea. I like to think I might see him again someday, somehow. I'd have liked to go fishing with him again.
I love you, Dad, and I will miss you as long as I live.
I think about the years to come, and that he won't be there to see them - and neither will he see the people we'll become. We always talked about going to Europe one day. We wanted to see the cathedrals and castles that filled the history books we talked about so often. We wanted to visit Istanbul and stand on the ruins of ancient walls together.
He won't be there for these moments and my heart breaks for him. I wish he knew how much he was loved; I don't think he understood what a void he would leave behind. Our family will spend a lifetime trying to understand why. I just hope, wherever he might be, that he's found some peace. I like to think he's somewhere quiet and green now, by the sea. I like to think I might see him again someday, somehow. I'd have liked to go fishing with him again.
I love you, Dad, and I will miss you as long as I live.
February 19, 2026
It’s hard to know the right words to say in situations like this one. All I do know is that Michelle and Pat were the true definition of the word soulmate. True partners in this lifetime, and beyond.
I remember Pat to be a true gentleman - and a true gentle man. I know he will be missed so very deeply by everyone who knew him.
Mum only mentioned from her last visit how she could sit and listen to Pat’s stories all day - he was just so interesting.
Michelle, Mikayla, Brandon and Nicky - we can’t take away the pain - I wish we could - but look for the signs when you least expect it.
We are thinking about you all. Be there for each other xx
I remember Pat to be a true gentleman - and a true gentle man. I know he will be missed so very deeply by everyone who knew him.
Mum only mentioned from her last visit how she could sit and listen to Pat’s stories all day - he was just so interesting.
Michelle, Mikayla, Brandon and Nicky - we can’t take away the pain - I wish we could - but look for the signs when you least expect it.
We are thinking about you all. Be there for each other xx
February 19, 2026
My deepest condolences for everyone's loss, my thoughts and prayers with you all ❤️
February 18, 2026
Michelle, Mikayla, Brandon and Nicky it’s with a sad heart that I’m writing these words sending love and big hugs to you all .
Pat was a real gentleman He was a loving dedicated husband and father. I admired his loving caring and respectful manner he always showed you guys, it was so beautiful to see. I’m so grateful for the memories we shared on our family visits . Pat was always happy and ready for any kind of adventure, I loved how he would point out things of interest when we would go out on adventures.I remember the last time we visited I told Pat how I loved listening to him talk because I found him to be so knowledgeable and interesting to listen to. I’m now so greatful I expressed my feelings to him . I remember sitting around playing board games , trying our hand with pottery or just sometimes chatting, he always made me feel welcome. Pat was and is a beautiful soul and I will always be grateful for the time we shared , love you Pat
RIP xxx
Pat was a real gentleman He was a loving dedicated husband and father. I admired his loving caring and respectful manner he always showed you guys, it was so beautiful to see. I’m so grateful for the memories we shared on our family visits . Pat was always happy and ready for any kind of adventure, I loved how he would point out things of interest when we would go out on adventures.I remember the last time we visited I told Pat how I loved listening to him talk because I found him to be so knowledgeable and interesting to listen to. I’m now so greatful I expressed my feelings to him . I remember sitting around playing board games , trying our hand with pottery or just sometimes chatting, he always made me feel welcome. Pat was and is a beautiful soul and I will always be grateful for the time we shared , love you Pat
RIP xxx
February 18, 2026
Michelle, Mikayla, Brandon and Nicky, your husband and father was an incredible man. I had the great privilege of be seated next to Pat when I first started working at Siena. He was endlessly patient and kind as he answered my questions and showed me how to use applications. I never stopped learning from him. It was blessing to know Pat.
February 17, 2026
From the first moment I met Pat I knew him to be a kind, thoughtful and respectful man. His devotion to his family never wavered. I was proud to have Pat in my family. A true gentleman.
I hope he knew how much I admired him in all his achievements, and there were many. I never ceased to be amazed at his vast knowledge of varied subjects. He could literally talk about anything.
I have many memories of Pat and I will treasure those memories.
It was my honour to have known him and loved him. He will be in my thoughts always. ❤️❤️
I hope he knew how much I admired him in all his achievements, and there were many. I never ceased to be amazed at his vast knowledge of varied subjects. He could literally talk about anything.
I have many memories of Pat and I will treasure those memories.
It was my honour to have known him and loved him. He will be in my thoughts always. ❤️❤️
February 17, 2026
Michelle, Mikayla, Brandon and Nicky, I send my love to all of you at this incredibly sad time. Patrick was one of the finest men I have ever had the privilege of working with. He was kind, caring, and endlessly supportive, a true friend to so many. I will always treasure the memories of our years together at Siena, and Patrick will remain in my heart with deep respect and affection.
February 17, 2026
Michelle, Mikayla, Brandon and Nicky, thank you for sharing these images of Pat and your family. Pat always had time for a chat at school, he always listened with his heart... a special guy.
Miriam Chetcuti.
Miriam Chetcuti.
February 17, 2026
I always enjoyed chatting with Pat about his overseas trips, how he keeps himself physically fit and his positive impact that he had connecting with students in his care.
February 17, 2026
Michelle, Mikayla, Brandon and Nicky... I am sending you love at this time...Although i did not share personal moments I truly acknowledge the life Pat lived, he had qualities that others admired and his family's journey was uniquely their own, his presence remains in every lesson remembered and every story told, he was loved for who he was and for all he gave, this tribute is to always remember the joy he showed, the wisdom he brought and the love that continues....
February 16, 2026
Growing up, dad was my hero. He was funny and silly and smart, and his life revolved around making sure we were all happy and enjoying life. He had led such an interesting life and I loved hearing about all of his stories about his childhood spent spear-fishing in New Caledonia, or the pranks he used to play on people in the navy. I was proud and excited to become a teacher like him, in part because it meant we got to vent and laugh and bond over our teaching stories. Some of my earliest and best memories are of sitting with him in our tiny little office watching him play games on the PC, and giving a (what I'm sure was very unhelpful) running commentary. I always looked forward to getting to visit and seeing how happy he was to have me there, and spending time together watching fails on youtube, having a wine or a 'dad beer' in the backyard while he cooked on the BBQ, or even going for a walk out in nature. I'm absolutely devastated that I won't get any more years with Dad; I'll never hear him laugh again, or tell me about the latest cool animal he saw, or a random science fact, get to recommend him an epic war movie, or even take another photo with him and his classic thumbs up pose. I will miss you forever, Dad- you had a huge influence on the person I am today, and I can only hope that somehow I will get to talk to you again in some way or place. Love always, Kayla.
February 16, 2026
Michelle and family… David and I are so sorry for your loss. Pat was an amazing person and I credit him with encouraging me to go through the Open Foundation program at Newcastle University. I had no idea what the program was about but Pat provided me with the information and I ran with it. I started the program in 1997 and graduated in 2001 with two degrees followed by a Masters degree in 2006. Sometimes it takes one person to change another person’s trajectory and Pat was that person for me. He probably had no idea about how influential he was and I’m 100% sure I’m not the only one he influenced …. Guaranteed Pat influenced and inspired many more people especially his students. Rest in Peace Pat 💛
Family tree
Paul Babin
Louise Jamet
Michelle Babin
Brandon Babin
Mikayla Babin
Nicholas Babin
Michelle Babin
Brandon Babin
Mikayla Babin
Nicholas Babin
Patrick Babin
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