Patrick Duffy, a retired family physician who practiced in Sumner between 1952 and 2004 and delivered more than 2,000 babies, received quite a celebration by his peers to honor and recognize his 60-years of service to the Sumner Rotary.

“I’ve had a great life, a great bunch of children and a great bunch of relatives,” Duffy said. “I’ve had no complaints. God has been good to me. And I try to be good to him.”

Duffy told his fellow Rotarians gathered at a monthly luncheon last week that he is very thankful for the Sumner Rotary and that it’s been a significant part of his life.

Duffy was joined by his children and wife, Susie, of 46 years.

Duffy’s son Patrick Duffy Jr. presented some reflection on his father’s start in the Sumner Rotary. Duffy Sr. joined the Sumner Rotary on Aug. 12, 1952. At that time, Duffy Jr. said Harry Truman was the president of the United States, the polio vaccine was completed, a loaf of bread cost 16 cents and Winston Churchill was still prime minister of Britain.

Duffy Jr. welcomed comments from fellow Rotarians. Bill Heath, a close friend, said that beyond Duffy’s accomplishments in medicine, he has been known first and foremost  as an “outstanding model of a father and husband to his family.”

“My accolades go to him for that above Rotary,” Heath said. “Pat Duffy has been a friend to anyone he meets. He has more friends, more admirers than anyone of us can shake a stick at. He is the greatest contributor on committees, projects and raising money. To me, he is the epitome of a Rotarian.”

Tom Myers agreed with Heath’s assessment and said Duffy believes in the thought that you never say no just because you don’t want to. Myers said Duffy was instrumental in spearheading a campaign of the Sumner Rotary back in 1985 to help in Rotary International’s effort to eradicate polio worldwide.

Duffy recalls his leadership helped to raise $10,000 in three months toward the effort.

Tina Pries, fellow Rotarian, called Duffy a role model.

“He is a role model not only to the younger members but also the elder members,” Pries said.

Judy Byron, the 2012-2013 district governor of District 5020, traveled from British Columbia to honor Duffy and congratulate him on his 60 years. In recognition, Byron presented Duffy a commemorative tie from Rotary International President Sakuji Tanaka.

“It’s important that we honor our youth who are our future but also celebrate the older Rotary members who represent our history,” Byron said.

Eric Lansford, president of the Sumner Rotary, also congratulated Duffy on his service and as a token of thanks presented a rhubarb pie from Berryland Cafe, located in downtown Sumner.

Earlier during the luncheon a host of Rotarians joyously sang “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.” Duffy was overcome with emotion and said he was saving his tears for when he got home. Duffy will turn 90 in September.

Reporter Andrew Fickes can be reached at 253-552-7001 or by email at andrew.fickes@puyallupherald.com. Follow him on Twitter, @herald_andrew.