August 25, 1952 - October 11, 2026
James Patrick “Pat” McCahill died peacefully in his sleep at his home on October 11, 2026, at the age of 74. He bore a brief and challenging end to his life with his customary dignity, humor, and grace.
Born on August 25, 1952, Pat was the third of seven children raised in Alton, Illinois. After graduating from Alton High School, he earned his degree from Benedictine College (1974) and received his J.D. from Washburn Law School (1979). In 1978, he married the love of his life, Nancy Simon, and shortly thereafter relocated to Denver where they continued to build a vibrant and fulfilling life together for the next 45 years. Throughout his professional career, Pat worked as an attorney and in legal publishing with Thomson Reuters and West Law.
Pat’s zest for life was evident in nearly everything he did. He was a teacher, a lawyer, a pilot, a motorcyclist, a bike rider, a volunteer, an avid traveler and an insatiable reader. He explored the world with courage, humor, and a voracious quest for knowledge. He loved music, dancing, history, sports (including rugby where he played on the pitch as “McKicks”), and the mountains of the American West. But above all, Pat loved his wife, family, and friends.
He and Nancy created a home where the door was always open; a glass of wine was within reach, and good food and lively conversation nourished lasting friendships. He supported their three children wholeheartedly—Caitlin, Erin Rose, and Conor—taking deep pride and delight in their accomplishments and lives. Pat was absolutely enchanted by his two granddaughters, Wesley and Sunny, and more recently by the arrival of his grandson, McKendree James. Being a grandfather gave him another reason to smile, another generation to admire and love, and a brand-new audience for his stories.
Pat was known for his legendary toasts. A polished and eloquent speaker, he could reach for Yeats, craft a beautiful phrase, and weave together humor and heartfelt depth to capture the essence of a person or occasion. His words lingered long after the glasses were set down. As his son Conor described him, the world has lost a gentle soul—yet Pat was never quiet about his joy. His resonant laughter and warm presence were often an invitation to laugh a little harder.
So, in honor of Pat, raise a glass.
Here’s to you, Pat. May your glass always be full, your stories never end, and your laughter continues to echo wherever good friends and loved ones gather.
Patrick is survived by his wife, Nancy Simon McCahill; children, Caitlin (Ben) Schuchart, Erin Rose McCahill and Conor (Tyler Metcalf) McCahill; grandchildren, Wesley and Sunny Schuchart and McKendree James Metcalf and sisters, Judy Patascher, Jane (Bill O'Connor) McCahill, Mary (Dwight) Lyle, and Eileen (Matt Morrissey) McCahill. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother (Myles Michael) and sister (Sally Elizabeth). He is deeply mourned by an extended circle of cousins, nieces, nephews, colleagues, and countless lifelong friends. As his family’s anchor and compass, he will be dearly missed and forever celebrated.
Donations in Pat’s Honor
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to one of the follow organizations in Pat’s honor:
Cuchara Mountain Foundation
