In memorial: Pat Nagle, founder of Harmon Brewing



A proud Tacoma native and pioneer in the local craft beer industry

Pat Nagle was one of the founders of Harmon Brewing Company, which opened in the F.S. Harmon Furniture building in 1997. Sadly and unexpectedly, Pat passed away last week. (Photo above from Ever Loved.)

He was a Tacoma native who attended Foss High School and Washington State University. His grandfather operated a bar on Tacoma’s Sixth Avenue. Pat loved his hometown and was one of the first entrepreneurs to see the potential of a revitalized downtown Tacoma.

(Image courtesy Sip Magazine.)

Pat operated Harmon Brewing for many years, calling himself the business’ “beer guy.” Harmon Brewing eventually expanded its business to include associated HUB restaurants in Tacoma, Gig Harbor, and Puyallup. Harmon Brewing ceased operations in 2019.

“Pat was a person that had a heart of gold and a smile that lit up a room, says Jeff Carlson, formerly the head brewer at Harmon Brewing. “He always had a good attitude, a positive comment to get you through the day, and a new idea for you to think about. Working for him was a great experience filled with opportunities, pride, and the ability to help and be a part of the local community.”


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In addition to his work at the brewery, Pat worked with local organizations like Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Puget Sound, Point Defiance Zoobilee, and the American Heart Association. At Harmon Brewing’s downtown location, he provided meals for free on Thanksgiving for those in need. He was an active member of the Downtown Tacoma Rotary Club. Pat’s friends and family describe him as a good ol’ guy with an emotional zest for life and a passion for loving deeply–a man who loved his family, loved the outdoors, and never met a person he didn’t like.

“He loved helping people and organizations through partnerships, sponsorships, and general fundraising,” said Jeff. “His love for Tacoma along with his visions of the city for the future were infectious, I don’t think Tacoma would be the city that it is today without his dedication to always elevating it. The Harmon Brewery was my first brewery job and I will forever be thankful for its presence and the opportunities that it provided.”

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“Cheers Pat, and thank you for being a friend, inspiration, and all-around amazing person. Every person that you touched with your life is better because of it.”

Pat Nagel unexpectedly suffered a fatal heart attack on Friday, February 23rd. You’ll find his complete obituary here.

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