Remembering Paddy Cole, 85

Trend Radar

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Jan 23, 2025

26 visitor like this post

Share

Remembering Paddy Cole, 85: A Life Well-Lived

Man, it's hard to believe it's been a year since Paddy Cole passed. Eighty-five years young, they say, but it still feels surreal. He was such a character, you know? One of those guys who just lived life to the fullest. This isn't just some dry obituary; this is a celebration of the guy, his quirks, his passions, and the lessons he unknowingly taught me.

The Unexpected Mentor

I first met Paddy when I was, what, 22? I was fresh out of college, brimming with big ideas and even bigger student loan debt. I'd started a small woodworking business – totally naive, I know – and needed space. Paddy, bless his soul, rented me a corner of his workshop. He was a retired carpenter, his hands gnarled and strong like ancient oak. Initially, I just saw him as a grumpy old guy who smelled faintly of sawdust and pipe tobacco. Boy, was I wrong.

Lessons in Life (and Woodworking)

Paddy didn't just rent me space; he became, unintentionally, my mentor. He taught me more about life than any professor ever could. He showed me the importance of patience, emphasizing that great woodworking, like great anything, takes time and care. He'd say, "A rush job's a rubbish job, son," which I quickly learned was truer than I ever thought possible.

He also taught me about craftsmanship. It wasn't just about slapping things together; it was about the pride in a job well done. About taking the time to select the right wood, understanding its grain and its character, making every cut precise. He showed me how to sharpen a chisel, a skill I'd underestimated and still struggle with at times. The guy was a true master, and it was incredible watching him work. I even ended up making some pieces for him--he got a kick out of that.

More Than Just Wood

But his lessons extended far beyond woodworking. He'd regale me with stories of his life, stories full of laughter, hard work, loss, and unexpected joy. He taught me the value of community—he was always helping someone, whether it was fixing a neighbor's fence or sharing his homegrown tomatoes. He knew everyone in town and everyone knew him. That's the kind of legacy you can't buy.

He taught me about perseverance. He'd seen tough times but he never gave up. I'd see him fussing over a particularly difficult joint, muttering under his breath, and then, bam! He'd solve it, with a satisfied grunt and a wink. He taught me to appreciate the small victories, the moments of quiet satisfaction.

Remembering the Good Times (and a Few Mistakes)

Remember that time I tried to rush that oak table for a client? Disaster! The leg cracked, almost splitting it in half. Paddy just chuckled, shook his head, and patiently showed me how to fix it – properly this time. I learned a valuable lesson that day: always take your time and never cut corners. It wasn't just about the wood, you know? He was teaching me about life's imperfections, how to make mistakes and learn from them.

There was so much more that I could share. Paddy's passing left a hole in the community. But his spirit lives on in the countless projects he helped create, and in the lives he touched. Remembering Paddy Cole isn't just about remembering a man; it's about remembering a legacy of craftsmanship, community, and perseverance. It’s about remembering a true master, a mentor, and a friend. Cheers to you, Paddy. We'll miss you.