It was announced on the morning of December 2nd that WWE legend Pat Patterson has died at the age of 79. The Canadian wrestler was loved by many both in and out of the squared circle. Many of his former colleagues and fans took to social media today to express their sadness and condolences to the Patterson family.

Shane McMahon responded to Pat Patterson’s passing this morning: “I can not express how crushed I feel right now with the loss of Pat Patterson. A true member of my family, mentor and dear friend. I love you Pat. God speed.”

Triple H: “No words can describe what he gave to us. His body as an in-ring performer, his mind as a storyteller, and his spirit as a beloved member of our large @WWE family. I will miss him for so many reasons… it’s never goodbye, it’s see ya down the road. Love you, Pat. Abooze”

Stephanie McMahon on his career: “#RIPPatPatterson I’m deeply grateful to have grown up with @wwe Hall of Famer, the first-ever Intercontinental Champion, the father of the #RoyalRumble and the first openly gay wrestler of his generation. Thank you for teaching me how to not take it all so seriously. Abooze”

The Iron Sheik: “PAT PATTERSON I DONT KNOW WHAT TO SAY OTHER THAN I LOVE YOU. YOU HAVE BEAUTIFUL MIND FOR THIS BUSINESS AND BEAUTIFUL HEART FOR THIS WORLD. MY HEART IS BROKEN. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. THANK YOU FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP #rip”

Mick Foley: “I just heard the terrible news about the passing of Pat Patterson. I loved the man. I could listen to his stories for hours. One of the all-time great wrestlers, one of the best minds in the business, and a dear friend.”

WWE’s The Big Show: “Pat Patterson was a unique wonderful individual. His passion was inspiring. His favorite “rib” /“joke” with me was; “ Paul, do you know who was asking about you the other day? I would reply who Pat? He would say NOOOBBOOODDDYY! “ I loved his wisdom and treasured our friendship.”

Kurt Angle shares a memory: “Very saddened to hear about the passing of one of my best friends..Pat Patterson. He had an infectious personality where you always wanted to be around him. This photo of Pat, @ShawnMichaels and me was from Wrestlemania 21. Pat helped us create an incredible Story. #RIPHOFer”

Jim Ross also took some time to remember the WWE legend on Twitter this morning: “Just heard of the passing this morning if the great, Pat Patterson. True legend of the pro wrestling business. A wonderful mentor who taught me so much. RIP old friend.”

WWE’s John Cena: “Loss is incredibly difficult. Those we love are only truly gone if we stop caring. Pat Patterson lived life as it should be lived with passion, love and purpose. He helped so many and always entertained with a story or joke. He will live on in my life always. Love you Patrick.”

WWE’s Natalya: “Pat Patterson knew @WWE was his home away from home, a place where he felt completely accepted and truly loved. Someone like Pat made all the difference because he wasn’t afraid to be himself and he made no apologies for it. Pat did it his way. Rest in power, PatHeart suit”

AEW’s Miro: “Karaoke Night with Pat Patterson in Belgium will forever be a highlight of mine. #RIPPatPatterson”

IMPACT Wrestling sent its condolences to the family: We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of wrestling legend Pat Patterson. We offer our condolences to his friends and family.”

WWE’s correspondent Kayla Braxton on Twitter: “Wow – what a loss for the @wwe family. There was never a time I saw Pat Patterson backstage at a show or event where he wasn’t smiling or trying to make people laugh. Thanks for always being kind to me during our interactions. Your bright spirit will be missed.”

WWE’s Dana Brooke on her favorite memory of Patterson: “Heaven gained an angel! As my heart breaks a bit! Pat Patterson would fill a room w/ laugher, always sit & make me laugh every week in catering by barking & people would wonder where the dog was! Would joke w/ @HEELZiggler & I, & most importantly supported me! #RIPPatPatterson”

WWE referee Charles Robinson: “So sad to hear of the passing of @wwe legend Pat Patterson. One of the greatest minds in the business and just an all around great guy. I will miss him and his karaoke! RIP my friend. You are a hero to many!”

Eric Bischoff: “Saddened to hear the news about Pat Patterson. Coming to WWE in 2002 was a “unique” situation. Pat was one of the first to go out of his way and genuinely make me feel at home. We shared many hours, stories, and yes a cocktail or 2. RIP Pat. You did it your way.”

Vince Russo: “Just read that Pat Patterson passed away. What great memories I have of a great man. I will dedicate ‘Chicken Necks’ to him today and talk about all my fond memories. Really loved that guy.”

LuFisto: “Le Rêve du Québec, M. Pat Patterson. Rest in Power.”

Pro Wrestling columnist Mike Mooneyham: “The importance of Pat Patterson to the success of WWE cannot be overstated. Pat, who passed away today at the age of 79, was a trailblazer in the wrestling business and Vince McMahon’s right-hand man for many years. And, with Ray Stevens, one of wrestling’s greatest tag teams.”

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