Most of our members who knew Patxi by now are aware that he passed away last week.   I have been updating this page dedicated to Patxi since he was admitted to the hospital until his death, and have been receiving so many wonderful emails expressing feelings of sadness, as well as those of happiness just having known the man.   Here are your thoughts to share with others as we all remember and miss Patxi Chico Martin:

"I will miss him as he was an all American and great supporter of the American Club. He had so much energy for our community."
Frazier Gardella, President Estepona Chapter
 
"Yes we will miss Patxi. Always so positive and smiling in spite of his difficulties. Its been my pleasure to know him and to work alongside him for 7 years including one special year when he took on the presidency of Estepona Chapter. His intellingence and efficiency were supreme. How easy he made it look using his computer with that old toothbrush in his mouth. Woe betide anyone who suggested he change it for a new one!  This dear courageous man lead from the front.  His good works for the handicapped will be recorded in local history.  Thank you for touching my life Patxi ."
Pamela Becque, Estepona Chapter

"My memory of Paxti will always be "a smile that lit the room up when he entered"
John Pease, Estepona Chapter

"Indeed very sad news we feel like its a member of our family.  We shall all miss him"
Jack and Liz Cobley, Estepona Chapter
 
"Joanne & I will miss him so much in so many ways, but mostly we will miss the relaxed Patxi.  He was so much fun, interesting and most of all inspiring."
Brian Wynne-Hughes, Estepona Chapter

"We are so sorry to learn of the passing of our dear Patxi.  A great loss to all of us, indeed.  A great person, a loyal colleague, a hardworking and generous heart.  There are not that many people who generate such appreciation from others. We will miss him very much.  We know you all feel his loss greatly, and we are with you in spirit at this sad time.  We were all touched by the amazing warmth of his smile and great attitude about life."
Cristina and Diego Silva, Marbella Chapter

"I was so sorry to learn that Patxi lost his battle. My thoughts and prayers are with the Estepona chapter."
Rosella  E. M. Parmiter, Malaga Chapter
 
"A VERY sad day.  He had a bigger heart and more courageous spirit than most men twice his size.  And no matter how bad things were for him, he always had that amazing smile!  Thanks for all you've done for our American Club over the years.  Friend... YOU will be missed.
A VERY sad day...RIP"
Joe Molitor, Estepona Chapter

"Whenever I would happen to see Patxi downtown and stop to chat, I would always go away happier than I was before meeting him! That is quite a tribute to him."
Nita Marsh, Estepona Chapter.....and these comments below are from my daughter, Jacqie Marsh Braley, in Colorado:
 
 "I am so sorry to hear about your friend Paxti.   You have mentioned seeing him when you went to town on a number of occasions.   If I remember correctly he is the one who fought so hard to get handicapped access to sidewalks, buildings, parking, etc. in Estepona (like we have had in the US for a long time) so others like him could get around better in their wheelchairs.    You always mentioned how cheerful and upbeat he was and how he made you feel so glad you ran into him every single time you talked with him.   Estepona has lost a good citizen and a friend of many.  I hope you and his other friends can really CELEBRATE his very special life and how it touched so many other lives and blessed them all."
Jacqie Marsh Braley

"Right now we need time to take on board our loss, even though we knew we would lose him, we still believed in miracles and that he might possibly pull through especially with his strong will and love of life."
Marty Martinez, Estepona Chapter

"Very sad to get the news about Patxi's passing. He is now at peace. Our thoughts are with his family and friends."
Gil Superville, Estepona Chapter

"We did not get a chance to know Patxi well, which judging by everyones thoughts and actions is our loss."
Loretta and Alan Campbell, Estepona Chapter

"So Sad. I hope he didn't suffer too much. A pleasant memory of him at the Thanksgiving before last.... He was clearly having a good time and won a prize at the raffle.  He was so happy. His little face was a great big smile.  I'm sure he will be greatly missed.
Love and light to you all"
Patricia Gray, FMB Chapter

"I'm personally very sorry at the passing of such a devoted member of your Estepona group.  I've addressed this to our group over here, knowing they will feel the same as me, knowing it was coming, but hoping it wouldn't.  When you fix your memorial/vigil plans, please include Jackie and me.  We're old, but we know your loss. He was a good guy, and I will always remember him, racing down on the Paseo here in Fuengirola, with that special rig he had.  We'll be with you in our prayers.
God Bless"
Troy & Jackie, FMB Chapter

"Indeed very sad news we feel like it's a member of our family. We shall all miss him."
Jack and Liz Cobley, Estepona Chapter

"He was a most gallant man and shall certainly be well remembered." 
Mary Ellen Massmann, Estepona Chapter

This submitted by Gillian and Bernard Tarry of Estepona is, I think, 
the perfect way to end this little testimonial to our dear Patxi:

Unforgettable Patxi

The tide recedes but leaves behind
bright seashells on the sand.

The sun goes down, but gentle
warmth still lingers on the land.

The music stops, and yet it echoes
on in sweet refrains.

For every joy that passes
something beautiful remains.