http://capitolfaxcom.disqus.com/NoneenThu, 27 Mar 2008 13:53:29 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147779<p>My dear friend you have been gone for two weeks now. I find myself reaching for the phone to call you, to ask for your advice. I owe my entire career to you. Words cannot express how thankful I am you are my friend. Till we meet again. W.W.B.D. (What Would Bottermen Do)<br>God Bless You.<br>Ron</p>Ron MolinaroThu, 27 Mar 2008 13:53:29 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147778<p>Even though I knew Pat for just a short time he was the kind of person people felt comfortable around. I will never forget our friendship and the time we spent together. I will always remember that magical kiss under the full moon on Lake Michigan.<br>I Miss You Pat and Always Will</p><p>Anita D</p>Anita DSat, 22 Mar 2008 13:00:09 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147777<p>I Knew the political side of Pat but can't forget the personal and fun side. Though I only knew you for a very short time our talks and are time together will always be forever in my heart. I won't forget you funny jokes or that one special we shared kiss under the full moon on Lake Michigan.<br>Miss You Pat<br>Anita D</p>AnonymousSat, 22 Mar 2008 12:44:40 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147776<p>I am truly in shock and deeply saddened. I am, however, very grateful for having known Pat and for having the chance to work with him and spend time with him - albeit, all too little time.</p><p> "There is no such thing as a 'self-made' man. We are made up of thousands of others. Everyone who has ever done a kind deed for us, or spoken one word of encouragement to us, has entered into the make-up of our character and of our thoughts." -George Matthew Adams</p><p>Pat, as a mentor and friend, has certainly entered into the make-up of my character and thoughts.</p><p>The comments posted on this blog, and the gathering I witnessed today at the visitation - are proof that Pat will live on through so many that he touched in his all too brief life.</p>Gary FriedlanderFri, 14 Mar 2008 22:05:44 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147775<p>I met Pat three times while vistiting from Australia and all three times he took the time to talk and update me on the latest in US politics and was always interested on what was happening in Australia both from a personal and political perspective. After reading the above comments it is obvious he will truly missed by not only those who knew him but by those whose lives were improved by his tireless work in keeping what we call in Australia "the bastards honest"</p>Eden ThompsonFri, 14 Mar 2008 04:14:08 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147774<p>I guess all of the positive attributes about Pat Botterman have been written on this site. I won't ramble, but I want to say that it was my privilege to work with Pat during the 1998 John Schmidt for Governor campaign where I saw first-hand his passion for politics and his energy to charge hard toward his political goals. He had a big heart and a big enthusiasm for politics and the people the run along the campaign trail of life. So very sorry to hear about his untimely passing, and to the Botterman family please accept my sincere regrets.</p>Porter McNeilThu, 13 Mar 2008 23:52:04 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147773<p>I was shocked at the untimely death of Pat! Just received a notice about the DLC Conversation being held in Chicago this year; I had planned to reach out to him.</p><p>I first met Pat at the DLC Conversation in Denver. Seaching for a table at the conference, he motioned us over. We had a great conversation about politics, his philosophy on the same. Somebody else said it best: "he was a man of his word, and he only supported candidates that he believed in."</p><p>He took a lot of hits for being fiercely independent but believed in the purposes of which he worked so hard. What a guy!</p><p>He will be missed.</p>Karen YarbroughThu, 13 Mar 2008 23:27:33 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147772<p>The best oratory I have ever heard in person was delivered by Pat at my Brother in Law's wedding. Pat was a very witty person, and as this blog confirms, a lovable person as they come. When I found out that Pat was gone I immediately thought about what a great loss this was to so many people. Pat will be missed. Our thoughts go to his wonderful family.</p>Derek MoffettThu, 13 Mar 2008 20:12:24 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147771<p>Miserére mei, <br>Deus, secúndum magnam misericórdiam tuam; <br>et secúndum multitúdinem miserationum tuárum: dele iniquitátem meam. <br>Amplius lava me ab iniquitáte mea et a peccáto meo munda me. <br>We hope to see you again. Pray for us still here.</p>FriendThu, 13 Mar 2008 08:38:06 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147770<p>Over the past couple of days I have intercepted phone calls for my father regarding the death of his younger brother Pat Botterman. Throughout these phone conversations, I have listened to several individuals express not only their condolences but also tales and appreciation for my uncle. Throughout these conversations, three distinct adjectives have stood out to me; down to earth, caring and a wonderful friend. I think these are three qualities individuals strive to possess, however there are few men who are able to achieve these wonderful features. Pat Botterman defied these though. As I have sat here and listened to story after story about his excellence, it is hard for me to not want to aspirer to his superiority. He was obviously a well respected man who touched the lives of many. I can not help but to grieve for those who have had the privilege of knowing him and those who loved him. Pat Botterman’s name seems to be synonymous with greatness and for that, I consider myself lucky to be able to call him an uncle. Since Monday, I have reflected on the time I spent with Pat and can not help to be saddened by the fact that I did not have the chance to learn more about him. However, the stories that have been shared with me have helped me keep his spirit alive; and for that, I thank all who have taken the time to reflect on their relationships with this wonderful man. On behalf of my brother and myself, I would like to thank everyone for their condolences and support and encourage more tales of this amazing person’s life. Pat Botterman will be missed; however, I know that he is being welcomed with open arms by his late father and brother to help watch over the rest of us. Together we will get through his sudden death and reminisce about the times we had with this young man. We love you uncle Pat and will always cherish the short amount of time we were able to spend with you.</p>Tara and Casey BotteramnThu, 13 Mar 2008 02:08:01 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147769<p>What a shock that this wonderful person is no longer with us. He was a true friend of our family since childhood and he will surely be missed. We all adored him because he simply put smiles on our faces. He really was "one of a kind" , full of wit, and can never be replaced. My sincere condolences to his family.</p>Laura (Pederson) MoffettWed, 12 Mar 2008 22:57:50 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147768<p>I have never met a man that could move a sofa with such great skill and precision. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family. Pat, we will miss you.</p>John and Dawn DevaneyWed, 12 Mar 2008 21:41:02 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147767<p>Reading all these lovely comments has been a joy in an otherwise sad day. Like Mary Kay, I met Patrick at WIU, and I feel so lucky to have known him. Clearly he has had a profound effect on many, many people, and his tremendous character will never be forgotten. Mike, my heart aches for you and your wonderful family.</p>Paula LancasterWed, 12 Mar 2008 20:54:51 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147766<p>I just finished reading all of your comments, I can assure you that they have given our family strength and comfort during this very difficult time. Having Patrick as a family member has always been a blessing, however, through your messages we are able to see that just having him in your life is a blessing. Many thanks for your kind words about a person who can never be replaced in my world.</p>Michael BottermanWed, 12 Mar 2008 18:37:20 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147765<p>I have known Pat since 1984 - when we first met at WIU - I agree wholeheartedly with John Fritchey - Pat would never back away from a fight (boy I am glad I still graduated after some of the fights Pat helped embroil me in with WIU!) We had great times together, he was a good loyal guy and I know the whole gang from the Lincoln Lounge of the WIU union is shocked and saddened.</p>Mary Kay O'BrienWed, 12 Mar 2008 17:37:26 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147764<p>I had the pleasure of working with Pat on a campaign. Pat is ONE OF A KIND. He was selfless and always genuinely helped people. He took people under his wing and gave them chances. And he did all this and expected nothing in return. That kind of person is hard to find. This world was a better place because Pat was in it.</p><p>I will miss you Pat! I will miss chasing you and giving you my Ann hugs. You always loved them! My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.</p>Ann LimjocoWed, 12 Mar 2008 15:25:30 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147763<p>From today's <i>Chicago Tribune</i></p>Story from the Chicago TribuneWed, 12 Mar 2008 14:58:53 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147762<p>To the deleted commenter. Please do not post entire articles or columns. That's a copyright violation. A brief excerpt and a link will suffice. Thanks.</p>Rich MillerWed, 12 Mar 2008 14:56:57 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147761<p>Pat’s voice will be truly missed. He was tenacious in fighting for the underdog. He fought a good fight and finish the race, so let us light the candle and allow his love and goodness to continually shine. God bless his family and friends.</p>Sandra ReedWed, 12 Mar 2008 14:44:57 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147760<p>I worked across the hall from Patrick in Arlington Heights for a couple of years. He was truly a great guy. He knew I was very leery of any politicians, but I quickly found out that there were true and honest people in politics....that's Patrick. He told me why he had a falling out with Dorothy Brown, and told me of some politicians who wanted to work with him, but he just 'didn't believe in them.'</p><p>I heard him arguing many times over the phone, and I admired him more and more after these outbursts. He had a huge heart...and I'll miss him very much, even though I didn't really know him that well. I learned that that IS honest and loyal people involved in politics....thanks, Patrick!</p>Kurt A.Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:32:04 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147759<p>Pat, 2 things ...<br>1) We miss you dearly.<br>2) There are some elections we need to win in November.</p>Larry GWed, 12 Mar 2008 12:26:23 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147758<p>God bless you Patrick. I first met Patrick in 1999 when I was running for the Joliet Park District Board of Commissioners. Nick Palmer was my campaign manager and we waited until the last minute to purchase yard signs. I was in a panic but Nick assured me that Patrick could help.</p><p>Patrick drove all the way down to Joliet at around 6:00am to be sure that I got those signs. He continued to give me sound advice even after that. I must attribute part of my victory in 1999 and 2003 to Patrick. That was an important time of my career and I wouldn't be where I am today without the help of Patrick. God bless his family and rest in peace my friend...</p>Michael StewardWed, 12 Mar 2008 10:58:42 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147757<p>Patrick,</p><p>You were a friend and mentor to me, like so many others. I had the opportunity to learn from you -- both the ropes and where to find the humor in it all. Like Howard said, a champion of the underdog and a damn good campaigner on a shoestring.</p>Brett SmileyWed, 12 Mar 2008 10:20:01 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147756<p>Pat Botterman has been one of my oldest friends, I knew him when he had a full head of hair. I have read through these comments and am so delighted to see how many lives he touched in the same way he touched mine.When we were in College together he was the same way. Always looking around to actively do something decent for others. He always was great company and would be constantly thinking ahead. After college we got together every weekend and when we started filling my home with kids Pat was their favorite babysitter. He was more than just a Political mechanic, he put the same effort in every human relationship he encountered. As I sit here stunned at the news, I can not recall a bad memory, an argument (except politics) or an unpleasent experience in the 26 years we were friends.</p><p>He will be missed every day of my life.</p><p>Bill</p>Bill EricksenWed, 12 Mar 2008 09:49:08 -0000http://capitolfax.com/2008/03/11/this-just-in-109/#comment-18147755<p>FROM LAUREN BETH GASH <br>Chair, Tenth Congressional District Democrats</p><p>Dear Tenth Dems Family and Friends:</p><p>By now many of you know that Patrick Botterman, the Wheeling Township Democratic Committeeman, died yesterday (Monday) of a heart attack. He was only 44, but he lived a very full and meaningful life.</p><p>When I first heard this news, I literally couldn't believe it. My husband and I had just been talking and laughing with him Monday at a lunch in Chicago hosted by Mayor Daley. I also sat with Pat later that afternoon at a strategy meeting with a half-dozen people. He was his usual smart, funny, intellectual, and brilliantly strategic self. When I got a call with the news a few hours later, I was absolutely stunned.</p><p>Pat has been a friend for many years. He was working on local Democratic races in our area way before we started electing so many Democrats in Chicago's north and northwest suburbs...and was a major part of the strategy to get us there. Pat was the Committeeman for Wheeling Township, one of the 12 townships that make up the 10th Congressional District, and a talented and important leader in our area.</p><p>I remember talks with him when I served as the only Democratic state legislator in Springfield from Lake County, and now, with his significant help, there are six! There were no Democratic legislators from northwestern Cook until recent years. As many of you know, he managed State Senator Dan Kotowski's (Tenth Dems Political Courage Award recipient in 2007) great winning campaign in '06. We've come a long way in our area, and Pat was a major reason why.</p><p>Pat was truly a rare breed in the political arena. He was blessed not only with great ideas, but with the ability to actually turn them into action. And an unmatched work ethic. Pat was simultaneously a brilliant political strategist, a top field/GOTV coordinator (whose ability to know the targeting in a district seemed innate), and a manager extraordinaire, with an unusual ability to motivate both candidates and volunteers alike.</p><p>Pat was no political hack -- he worked the campaigns and causes he believed in; he was fearless. With well-articulated public policy opinions that were spot-on, many of us would have liked him to run for higher office.</p><p>Patrick Botterman was also a lot of fun to be around. I am honored to have called him a friend, and to have the fortune to have worked with him on so many campaigns. Democrats in the 10th District mourn the loss of one of our best and brightest.</p><p>Lauren</p><p>Visitation and Funeral Information:<br>Visitation -- Friday, March 14 / 3:00p.m. - 9:00p.m.</p><p>Glueckert Funeral Home<br>1520 North Arlington Heights Road<br>Arlington Heights, Illinois</p><p> Funeral -- Saturday, March 15, 2008 / 9:30 a.m.<br> Our Lady of the Wayside Catholic Church<br> 34 West Park Street<br> Arlington Heights, Illinois 60005<br> (847) 253-5353</p>LaurenWed, 12 Mar 2008 02:50:25 -0000