Patrick “Pat” Bentley, 83
Patrick “Pat” W. Bentley, a longtime resident of Tupper Lake, passed away at his home on March 17th, 2026, at the age of 83. Pat was born on April 9th, 1942, the son of Charles and Bernice (Burke) Bentley.
Pat graduated from Tupper Lake High School in 1960. He then moved on to achieve a bachelor's degree in economics from St. Lawrence University and later a masters in education from SUNY New Paltz.
Pat was a devoted public servant and was initially employed as a New York State Trooper. He spent four years patrolling in Raybrook, and then off of the NYS Thruway in Kingston, N.Y.
Pat would then transition his career into public school teaching where he taught both fifth and sixth grade for 33 years in the Saugerties Central School District.
Outside of work Pat enjoyed participating in local recreational sports. He was active in bowling and softball leagues in Tupper Lake, Saugerties and Kingston. Pat was an avid golfer throughout his years and always worked at improving his golf game. He was once quoted as saying “I don’t know why I bother to carry all these clubs, I hit everyone of them 150 yards.” More importantly, he enjoyed playing golf and other sports for the time it enabled him to spend with friends and family. Pat loved to meet people and could converse with anyone about sports. He was a strong follower of the NY Knicks, NY Rangers and St. Lawrence University Hockey teams, but loved his Dodgers. As an Alumni of St Lawrence University, he enjoyed cheering on the “Saints” and even earned himself the title of “Fan of the Year.” Once hockey was over, Baseball season was something he always looked forward to. He was a passionate Dodger fan throughout his lifetime. He grew up listening to Brooklyn Dodgers games on radio and bled Dodger Blue. Even upon their relocation to Los Angeles, he remained a devoted fan and would reiterate the Brooklyn Catch phrase “wait ‘til next year”. In his lifetime he was able to experience seeing his favorite team play at both Ebbets Field and Dodger Stadium. He routed for them through 20 World Series and was in attendance for game #2 of the 2018 World Series in Boston.
For those who knew Pat, he will be missed for the kindness and respect he showed to others. He had a way with words both on paper and through his sense of humor. He truly enjoyed being able to make people laugh and smile. Pat cherished the time he was able to spend with his family and friends and he loved to reminisce about the many fond memories that were created over the years. His absence in our family will be deeply missed and his spirit will carry on in our hearts.
Pat is survived by his former wife, Judith Bentley, two beloved sons Eric and Bryan (Trisha) and three grandchildren he greatly adored: Hailey, Eliana and Kyle. He is predeceased by his parents, Charles and Bernice Bentley and brother, James.
A Celebration of his life will be announced and scheduled for a later date.