Patrick's Dad

Ed Eichler and Patrick Mullen with the Sharon quilt
Old chicken coop near Poolesville, MD -- December 1996

My brother-in-law's father, Charles Frances Mullen, died on March 28. Today is the day when Charlie's family, including Patrick, will gather in Wisconsin to honor and remember Charlie.


Charlie was an inventor who was trained as an Air Force pilot. He loved inventing and inventions. I never knew him and only met him once. However, I do know him through the wonderfully dry and creative humor of his son, my brother-in-law, Patrick Mullen.

Patrick, a savvy businessman, a woodturner, one who flies model aircraft, a tinkerer and a scientist par excellance, brings sparkle and care to our family. Our grandkids love the fireworks (literally) that occur when Uncle Pat gets charged up. Through Patrick and my sister, MB, we engage in lively conversations where everyone's opinions are challenged. Underneath all of the banter is a glorious respect for humanity, in all of humankind's foibles and follies.

So, as Charlie's family, Patrick and Sara and Dan and Kam, gather to say good-bye, I want to chime with a word of gratitude to this gentleman for fathering a great guy. If our family is our legacy, then Charles Mullen, through his children, continues to make the world into a better place.

Copyright 2012
Wanda Hayes Eichler