Patrick Scanlon, accomplished attorney
Patrick Scanlon, 81, a devoted family man, accomplished attorney, and lover of the sea, passed away Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024. Born Feb. 27, 1943, Pat grew up as the eldest of six children in a close-knit family. At 14, he faced the loss of his father, a tragedy that changed his family’s life. With the family in a difficult financial situation, Pat worked tirelessly alongside his siblings to help his mother support their family, setting the foundation for a life defined by resilience, hard work, and dedication.
In his early years, Pat worked six days a week in construction in the summers and progressed from a laborer to a skilled carpenter. To meet his family’s needs, he had to develop do-it-yourself skills in plumbing, carpentry, electrical and automotive repairs. Throughout his life, Pat preferred fixing things himself, and he enjoyed acquiring tools at bargain prices at yard sales.
Patrick’s intellectual curiosity and thirst for knowledge drove him to pursue higher education. He earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and a master’s degree in African affairs. Patrick was an avid reader with an extensive vocabulary and an interest in etymology.
In 1968, Patrick moved to Delaware, where he began teaching at Delaware State College. His interest in law led him to Rutgers University, where he earned his law degree in 1974. For the next 50 years, Patrick practiced law in Delaware, building a legacy of integrity and service in his profession. The year 2024 marked his 50th anniversary as a practicing attorney.
Outside of his career, Pat loved being in the water, and he passed on his interest to his children, relatives, and friends. A skilled and enthusiastic spearfisherman, he spent many days spearfishing at the Outer Breakwall near Lewes with family members and friends from Diamond State Skin Divers. An avid scuba diver, Pat enjoyed wreck diving in nearby ocean waters. He delighted in clamming, crabbing, and boating in Rehoboth and Indian River bays, where he shared many happy moments with family and friends.
Pat is survived by his steadfast partner and wife of 58 years, Regina “Gina” Scanlon. He also leaves behind his cherished children, Lori Maramante (Jose Maramante), Daniel Scanlon and Mary Scanlon; and grandchildren, Benjamin and Elizabeth Maramante. His siblings, Eileen Krepp (Charles Krepp), Joyce Masuga, Peter Scanlon (Penny Scanlon), Noreen Fertig (William Fertig) and Martin Scanlon (Terri Scanlon), also mourn his passing, along with a host of friends and relatives, including in-laws, nieces, and nephews.
Pat was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Elizabeth Scanlon; and in-laws, Dennis Masuga, Mary Jo Scanlon, Robert Steinmetz, Vicki Steinmetz, Sally Sharpless and Allen Sharpless.
During his lifetime, Pat was active in many community organizations. When he was president of Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity, he was instrumental in starting Habitat’s ReStore in Kent County. He will be remembered as a man of immense strength, kindness, and generosity.
Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, Jan. 3, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes; or at 10:45 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 4, at St. Edmond, 409 King Charles Ave., Rehoboth Beach, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m. Burial will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hope Medical Clinic, Dover, or a charity of choice in Pat’s honor.
