Roanoke Times:

Patrick was a workplace trainer and paramedic, and taught all of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration classes offered by the American Red Cross in the area, Whittaker said.

He was certified to teach basic disaster preparedness classes, and all levels of CPR and oxygen administration. He was the recipient of WDBJ’s Hometown Hero award and Exceptional Volunteer award before he was hired full-time. According to his obituary, he was featured in several news stories for his brave acts of kindness during emergency situations.

Whittaker said she will remember Patrick for his “larger than life personality.”

She recalled when she first met him at the local Red Cross office. “He walked into my office and said ‘Do you want me or not?’ ” She said he was so confident with his lifesaving skills and certifications that she later hired him as a staff member.

Patrick worked for the Virginia Department of Transportation Safety Patrol Division before coming to the Red Cross. He was there for more than 10 years, Whittaker said.

Continue Reading…(source) Victim was on way to teach lifesaving – Roanoke.com.