Abilene Mourns Death of Veteran Employee

ABILENE, TX — The City of Abilene has confirmed the passing of a city employee due to COVID-19.

According to the city, Refugio Patino, Jr. has served in the Community Services Department for more than 20 years.

Patino worked as an employee of the Community Services Department for seven years before he was promoted to Crew Leader.

Patino was part of a great number of city projections including installing new backstops and dugouts at ball fields, pouring sidewalks, building new playgrounds, and installing Abilene’s landmark downtown storybook sculptures.

According to the city, Patino tested positive for COVID-19 recently and suffered from underlying health conditions.

The 56-year-old passed away on Monday.

"The City of Abilene is grateful for the dedication and care Patino put into his job and the betterment of his community, and keeps him and his family in our thoughts and prayers.”