March 17, 1937—Nov. 1, 2009

Patrick J. Corey, an independent movie theater owner, died Sunday in Millard Fillmore Hospital. He was 72.

The Lancaster resident operated the Flix Superplex Movie Theater, a 10- screen multiplex at Transit Road and William Street in Lancaster.

Born in Buffalo, he graduated from Bishop Ryan High School and from there went straight into the world of cinema, starting as an usher in General Cinema theaters. He remained with the chain in Buffalo for more than two decades, rising to manager, division manager and district manager.

During that span, he opened a number of local movie theaters, including McKinley Mall 6 in Hamburg, and helped negotiate the original lease for Market Arcade Cinema in downtown Buffalo.

Mr. Corey was vice president of concession operations for Carmike Cinema in Pittsburgh before returning to Buffalo to open Flix 13 years ago.

Surviving are his wife, Judith Heintz Corey; a daughter, Kelly Schuler; two sons, Scott and Robert; two sisters, Martha Matteson and Mary Yacyshyn; and three brothers, David, Joseph and James.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 9 a. m. Saturday in St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 5271 Clinton St., Elma.