College of the Canyons instructor and KABC-TV writer and producer, Patrick Tague, has died, with his colleagues honoring his memory. 

“It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of broadcasting technology instructor Patrick Tague on July 13,” read a statement from Eric Harnish, spokesperson from College of the Canyons.

Patrick joined the college’s Media Entertainment Arts (MEA) department as an adjunct instructor in February 2012.

“I heard nothing but great feedback from students past and present who very much embraced his perspective,” said Dave Brill, MEA instructor at COC. “Needless to say, I will truly miss Patrick popping into my office just ahead of his class to wax poetic on whatever was on his mind.”

Brill described his friend as “opinionated, creative and a perfect fit to bring into the classroom.”

When he wasn’t teaching, Patrick worked as a writer and producer for KABC-TV for more than two decades.

In a statement released by ABC7, Patrick was remembered for being a raconteur, mentor and an old-school newsman.

“Patrick made sure we never forgot our mission or our purpose as journalists,” reads the statement. “He was the person every newsroom needs to have. We will miss him very much.”

Before joining KABC-TV, Patrick was a senior producer for “Good Morning America” and a writer and producer for “The Late, Late Show with Tom Snyder.” He was also a director, producer and writer for The Travel Channel, senior news writer for Whittle Communications, and senior broadcast producer for CBS News. He also worked as a reporter and news writer at ABC Radio Network and The Associated Press.

Patrick earned his bachelor’s degree in Economics from Fordham University and was a member of the Directors Guild and Writers Guild.

Patrick is survived by his wife, Brenda; brothers Tom, James and Charles; sisters Mary Alicia Haberman and Elizabeth Anne Giuliano, as well as 11 nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that contributions be made to World Central Kitchen in his honor. 

“We wish to extend our deepest sympathies to Patrick’s family, friends and colleagues in the MEA department,” Harnish said. “He will certainly be missed.”

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