Benjamin C. Patt, Jr, 81, born October 4, 1932, lost his battle with cancer August 3, at Hospice House in Vero Beach, Fla. He was a longtime resident of Connecticut, living in Fairfield County for many years.

His beloved wife Judith S. Patt, whom he married in 1959; four daughters and their husbands, Martha and Peter T. Manion of Sandy Hook, Sarah Patt-Pronek and Neal of Orlando, Fla., Susannah Barratt and fiance Jack Tom of Monroe, and Jennifer and Tom King of Cary, N.C.; eight grandchildren; and a sister and her husband, Mariana and Tony Corrado of Ridgefield, survive Mr Patt.

Some of his accomplishments, in addition to selling life insurance policies, included 35 years as a Rotarian, as well as many years planning fundraisers for the Red Cross and The Salvation Army.

Always a writer, he authored five children’s books, and spent years writing articles about his travel adventures in a variety of travel magazines.

Mr Patt will be greatly missed for his great sense of humor, and his door was always open to people, welcoming them to stop by for games of bridge, drinks, and lively conversation. His love of politics, sports, and history knew no bounds. There were often spirited discussions regarding all.

He was a graduate of The Lawrenceville School, and a 1956 graduate of Colgate University. Keeping in touch with many classmates over the years, while contributing to both institutions, were part of his busy life.

When he discovered he had cancer, he referred to a quote by Woody Allen, saying, “I’m not afraid of death; I just don’t want to be there when it happens.”

A memorial Mass took place August 11, in Vero Beach.