USA Wrestling received word on Sunday that wrestling referee Pat Cadwallader, Sr. of Anaheim, Calif., passed away this weekend.According to California USA Wrestling, Cadwallader had been in the hospital this past week, after suffering a stroke while fighting a staph infection.
Cadwallader was a leader among officials in California, and was a top referee on the national level. USA Wrestling gives its condolences to the family and friends of Pat Cadwallader, who made a difference within wrestling during his lifetime and will be truly missed.

A more detailed obituary, and information on services for Pat, will be provided when available.

Statement from Rick Tucci, U.S. Wrestling Officials Association President

As head of the United States Wrestling Officials Association, I would like to reflect on one of our best officials that passed away this past weekend. Pat Cadwallader will be missed both as an official but mostly as a friend. He always had a smile on his face no matter if he was having a bad health day or a good one. As a teacher to the younger inexperienced officials, I encourage you to follow the example that he has set in officiating. He served on the United States Wrestling Officials Executive Board and was a major contributor to our success in our country. I could always count on Pat to be there when I needed help in California or wherever in the country that I needed him. I will miss his sincerity, courage, intergrity and friendship. We will never forget you, Pat; may you rest in peace. The whole officials community send our condolences to his family.

Statement from Duane Morgan, California USA Wrestling State Chairman

We have lost a great official, mentor, coach, and teacher, but most of all a great FRIEND.

Pat was the California USA Wrestling Head mat official leading a group of over 200 officials in the Olympic styles of Freestyle, Greco Roman and Folkstyle. Pat was a Category 1 official working numerous State, national and international events in his span of more three decades of officiating. His passion for the sport was demonstrated through his countless volunteer hours and resources, blowing a whistle and training others in the art of officiating.

Pat was always there when I needed him. He always brought his expertise and smiling face to help lend a hand wherever needed. There are no words to describe the emptiness at the loss of a friend to me and to the family of wrestling.

Pat leaves behind family who shared Pats’ dedication to world of wrestling. As a wrestling community we would like to thank the family for sharing Pat with us. 

If a man is defined by how he changed countless people’s lives for the better, then Pat Cadwallader was that man. He will be deeply missed but his legacy will live on through all of us.

Statement from Rich Bender, USA Wrestling Executive Director

Pat Cadwallader embodied what is right about wrestling. He was a tireless volunteer with a huge heart for the sport. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time.