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Memorial Keepers(2)
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Patrick "Goldwalker" Jay O'Connell
September 3rd, 1940 - February 15th, 2025
September 3rd, 1940 - February 15th, 2025
Born Sept 3, 1940, Patrick O'Connell died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, on February 15, 2025 at the age of 84.He is survived by his eldest son Vincent, daughters Rachel “Rocki” and Katalina “Katt” and Patrick-Robert. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Ashley, Corbin, Sophia, Kaitlin, Ethan. and Chloe and his former wife, Roxana Montes.
Patrick was an Army veteran, serving in the Korean war and a proud member of the American Foreign Legion, which he worked with tirelessly.
Many years ago, he made a trip to Costa Rica with the objective of hunting in the jungles. Patrick fell in love with everything about the country and the life. It suited him so well he returned on a flight with the intention of making it home. He left Indiana to make Costa Rica his home in 1964. He spent those years on the Osa Peninsula hunting, prospecting for gold, and traveling from there to San Jose to trade and carry gold for the miners, thus earning the name "Gold Walker". His travels and tales caught the eyes and ears of writers and film makers, making him the subject of several movies and books.
Patrick was happiest when he was kayaking and he spent many days paddling the rivers and bays of Golfito. He usually paddled with good friends or family and was always accompanied by his faithful and most spoiled dog in the world, "Kayak".
His kindness, wit, tenacity and humor will be greatly missed by all whose life he touched.
Rest In Peace, Goldwalker
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Tributes
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Jean Fiala Birkland
So sorry to hear your loss of Pat. I knew him as a child living in Costa Rica. His brother Mike and Pat came to the farm in Helechales. Saw Pat a few years ago in Costa Rica. So many memories. Our sympathies.
Amy Khoo
I met Patrick in 1991 he was a grand friend to Raymond and I indeed purchased some hand gathered gold nuggets directly from him. Mementos I cherished for years. He also would kayak over and visit us at Playa Sam Josecito and he seem to enjoy providing Raymond with hand gathered caiman fro Rio Coto or Rio Esquinas. Thus began the legends of “Pancho” one of the reptiles that inhabited the lagoon of Playa San Josecito, and other caiman offspring ensued, probably crocodiles too Patricks was kind and vibrant and peaceful. He represented a man so at one while hunting and gathering in primitive nature. Strong and steady he seemed to manage being upbeat and productive in early days of Golfito shift from banana company to fishing port town to tourism. He made his mark with ANYONE he met NO DOUBT!! RIP Patrick
George Wilson (Shorty)
So, Patrick has left the building! I’m not sad just very happy our paths crossed! What an amazing character he is! He said let’s go hunt some Cayman’s you jump in and catch one and we will show your family and friends. Me what if I miss? Patrick, I’ll tell your family and friends. We did a boat deliver from Tahiti to Tonga. The captain looked at me 6’2” and looked at Patrick maybe 5’ and they called me shorty for the trip?? Patrick was always full of practical good humored jokes with a devilish smile . He contributed immensely to local organizations in Golfito and the American Legion. If you are familiar with the Dash- his was Epic Love you Brother Shorty & Juanita❤️
Clinton McDonald
How did you meet Patrick?
I had the pleasure of meeting patrick back in i believe it was about 2015. I was introduced to him by some friends of his who happened to be visiting and one was a former coastie. It was awesome meeting him and talking to him and hearing his stories was so much fun. Reading the book during that patrol was even more fun.
Peter Simon
I had the pleasure of knowing Patrick and on a few occasions he shared tales of his earlier life on the Osa Peninsula. Living off the land, primary protein being toucan and an occasional peccary. Befriending and gaining the trust of everyone he met while at the same time managing to elude thieves that wanted the gold or money that he needed to carry. Knowing where he was by the color and size of the rocks in the river he was crossing. I was mesmerizes by those stories and could have listened for hours. Many of us dream of a self sufficient life but, few have the courage to do it as Patrick did. My life was enriched from knowing him. Today I toast to you Patrick, one more time.
Carol Hudson
Patrick was one of a kind. He love his countries (US and Costa Rica). He was adventurous and loved being on the water taking in all of Mother Nature. He raised his kids to love life and nature and they respected and love their DAD. Many fun times at his place were we gathered for great food and horseshoes. He loved a good party and loved his drink. He had fabulous stories of his life and adventures. He will be missed in Golfito by all. To his kids he leaves you so many memories of love and he will always be with you.
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