Special Delivery for a Special West U Mailman

Nearly every day for the past seven years, 365 homes in the south part of West University can count on a special delivery in the form of an enthusiastic hello and a friendly smile along with their mail and packages. Mailman Patrick Sanchez has a huge fan club thanks to his positive attitude and caring personality. Recently, the neighbors decided it was their turn to return the favor and deliver something nice to Patrick. 

One of Patrick’s many fans, Whitney Krueger discovered that Patrick’s birthday was coming up and thought it would be fun if the neighbors surprised him with birthday decorations or cards. The word spread and neighbors went all out to celebrate Patrick. 

Whitney and her family - husband Cory, daughter Annie Kate and son Hayes - decorated their door. Whitney said, “You can’t have Patrick as your mailman and not know him. He’s such a personable guy and his attitude is always fantastic. No matter what, when you ask Patrick how he’s doing, he responds with a big smile and says, ‘Just living the dream!’ We moved into the neighborhood in 2018 and he made it a point to introduce himself immediately. He’s always asking about the kids, life, et cetera.” 
 

Patrick loved the decorated fence at this West University house and was surprised when they presented him with a birthday cake complete with a giant sparkler candle. 

Another neighbor (who asked to be anonymous) added her accolades: “Patrick delivers the mail rain, sleet, or snow, but the exceptional part is that it comes with a smile and cheer every day without fail. He is loved by all, and the chance to celebrate his birthday this year from house-to-house on his route was a gift to those who know and love him.” 

When this neighbor’s two college-aged sons heard there would be a door-to-door birthday celebration for Patrick - who they adore - they overnighted a funny bobblehead so it would arrive in time for Patrick’s birthday. “That’s a testament to just how much of an impact Patrick has had on them (and everyone he meets).”

She added, “With the challenges of Covid, Patrick wasn’t fazed. Without fail, each day, we would look forward to seeing Patrick. His reliable presence and positive energy carried us and so many others through an unprecedented and stressful time. Patrick makes it his job to know the families on his route. He looks out for our children and keeps a watchful eye on our homes.” 
 
Add Ann Malcom and her family to Team Patrick. They wanted to make sure Patrick received his birthday card in time so Ann’s husband, Rodney, drove around nearby streets until he tracked Patrick down. Ann had lots of great memories of the ways that Patrick had been a blessing to her family. Now in college, daughter Katie recalled the time she was house-sitting at the neighbors and they had a huge mattress delivered. She was struggling to move it into the house. Patrick saw her and came to her rescue, helping to move the giant box into the house.

Elizabeth and Kenny Burke have been fans of Patrick since they were little. Elizabeth said she loves that the mail always comes with a smile and a nice conversation. Kenny said he appreciates that Patrick always goes the extra mile to initiate a memorable conversation.

Another shout-out for Patrick came from Lauren Burke: “Patrick is a witty, shining star. He is engaging and takes the time to connect with everyone he sees. He always has a great comeback. His snappy, positive attitude and joy for life can turn anyone’s day around. I just smile when I see him coming down the block and make sure to come out to chat with this incredible funny man every chance I get. What an example of joy and fun. Happy Birthday, Patrick, we all love you!”

The West University neighbors' love of Patrick is mutual. He thinks they are amazing, too.

Patrick said spotting the birthday greetings around the neighborhood was a “humongous surprise” and it was fun taking pictures of the signs. He said it was “so cool that many people took time out of their day. People slowed down on the street to say ‘Happy Birthday’ from their cars. Such a great outpouring of kindness. One family even had a cake with a giant sparkler candle! People are still wishing me a belated happy birthday!” 

“It’s a pleasure and joy to deliver mail. I like helping to make people’s day better. I am thankful to be part of the community and think I have one of the best jobs in the world,” he said. 

Whitney shared, “At the end of the day, we just want Patrick to know that he’s appreciated and that we recognize all of his amazing work in our community. He’s such a light!”