Patrick Branigan passed peacefully on June 11, 2024 in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Patrick was 64 years old and was surrounded by beloved members of his ex- pat community which included Brits, Chinese, Kiwis, South Africans, Aussies, Taiwanese, Americans and other World travelers. 

To sum up Patrick’s life in only a few paragraphs would be an impossible task – but one we’re still willing to try. Patrick Louis Branigan was the 4th of 8 children to Alan and Susan Branigan . He grew up in Arlington, VA and attended St. Agnes grade school and Bishop O’Connell High ( class of ‘78) Pat was very smart, got good grades and was an accomplished soccer player. He was quite industrious with an entrepreneurial spirit. He delivered newspapers , mowed lawns, shoveled snow and along with brother Bob, was a house painting contractor while still in school.

 After graduating high school, Patrick attended James Madison and George Mason Universities. In between attending both these schools, Pat took his first big excursion through Mexico, Central and South America. Shortly after graduation Pat went on a work trip to China and began to recognize his extraordinary gift for languages. Pat was fluent in five languages. 

In the late 80’s Pat relocated to Taiwan and tutored people in English. From there , Pat was able to take several trips into mainland China . He was happiest when he could host people in a distant land. He encouraged his brother Tom to tutor in Tawain, several years later Tom returned to the States with his beautiful wife and two sons. 

Pat spent the most time abroad based in Hangzhou, China( over 20 years). Initially, he marketed silks and leather goods ( BlackZebra Ltd. ) . For the longest time there,  he refurbished antiques and distributed them along the West Coast. Pat was able to  help a lot of people navigate not just in China but throughout the region. 

About 10 years ago, Pat was able to “retire “ to a place he had long admired, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Again, he was quite busy meeting and hosting a great many and diverse people and advise them in their travels. Patrick passed last summer shortly after a visit from siblings and supported by many in his ex- pat community. Brothers Chris and Greg and sister Jennifer were able to attend a fair well ceremony this past fall, where his remains rest in one of his favorite spots- the canals that border the ancient and beautiful city of Chiang Mai. 

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