- - July 7th, 2020
Tribute to Pat Coyne

A whole bunch of laughter left our world when FVHS classmate and longtime friend Pat Coyne passed away on July 7.

Pat will be remembered by many for his uncommon wit, easy laugh and – when you rubbed him the wrong way – loud bark. But he didn’t bite, and those of us who knew him well remember a soft heart and generous nature.

I got to work with Pat for 25 years. He was, in fact, an inspiration for my career, introducing me to the joys of high-fidelity sound during high school, and helping me pick out my first stereo system before I headed to college. Many, many of our conversations thru the years revolved around the entertainment technologies we both loved.

Just as he had kindled my appreciation for great sound, I was ultimately able to get him to try golf. He was smitten. It became our greatest source of shared joy, lasting until just a few years ago, when his body would no longer let him play.

Pat was best man at my wedding, my best friend for over 50 years. He was adored by my mom and my wife. He will be missed, but his soul will be with us always.

Hit ‘em straight, my brother.

Steve Firszt
July 27, 2020