Patrick Haskell, who ran the family-owned Haskell Insurance Agency in Needham for decades, died March 26 along with his wife, Margaret Rimmler, in a helicopter crash in Kauai, Hawaii.
The couple was among four passengers on a sightseeing tour with Hawaii’s Airborne Aviation over the scenic area. Officials said the weather became “spotty” with rain, wind and changing surf when the crash occurred on Kalalau Beach. They reported that bystanders on the beach immediately came to the aid of those in the helicopter followed by a multi-agency rescue operation. Two individuals on the flight survived the crash.
“The Haskell Agency team is heartbroken, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of Patrick and his wife, Margaret,” said Steve Palenscar of the Haskell Insurance Agency. “Patrick was a trusted agent for so many, but more importantly, he was known for his kind heart, caring nature and willingness to go the extra mile.”
Known as P.J., Haskell grew up in Needham where his father, George, founded the agency in 1960. P.J. joined his father a few years out of Boston College, in 1991, and worked at the agency at 199 Chestnut St. until his recent retirement. In 2025, the Haskell Agency partnered with Foley Palenscar Schortmann Insurance Agency, another local family-owned agency, in Dedham Square.
“He was a positive person who consistently assumed the best in others,” said Palenscar. “He was beloved by his colleagues, who always enjoyed his steady and joyful presence in the office. He was also highly respected across the insurance industry, where he was known for his insight and guidance.”
The cause of the helicopter crash remains under investigation.
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