HOLYOKE, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- For 30 years, Pat Brennan built one of the most beloved St. Patrick’s Day traditions in western Massachusetts and this year, the big tent goes up for the first time without him.

Brennan’s daughter, Sam, grew up hearing the story about her dad. “Growing up, I was always told my dad had a 10-by-10 tent and he put it in the back parking lot and he had a few cases of beer and that was the beginning,” she explained.

After 30 years, the tent grew and the tradition strengthened the bond of everyone in the city. Brennan became part of the heart of St. Patrick’s Day in Holyoke. This year is the first time the big tent stands without the man his friends called “Bobo,” following his passing from ALS.

Chris Camus has been by the Brennan family’s side for years. A close family friend who helped keep the bar running after Pat’s passing, Camus carries that weight with him this weekend. “We’ll be doing a toast to Pat Brennan at 8 o’clock. It’ll be a year next year since he passed away from ALS,” he said.

Not everyone who loves Pat Brennan will be there to raise that glass. “This year, we’re all here except, unfortunately, his daughter Sam, the youngest, she’s studying abroad in Italy, so she’s here with us in spirit,” Camus added. “Just hi Sam.”

The toast for Pat Brennan will be held Friday.

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