Robert "Pat" Patterson, age 61, passed away on Monday, September 2, 2013 in Phoenix, Arizona. He was born on April 28, 1952 in Philadelphia, PA. He was a longtime resident of Anchorage, Alaska, and most recently lived in Fairbanks, Alaska.
He is survived by his mother, Ernestine Patterson, and his younger siblings which include sisters: Dorethea Robinson (brother-in-law, Charles Robinson) and Donna Dalton (brother-in-law, Brian Dalton), and his brothers: Eric Patterson and Rufus Patterson Jr., and his children, Veronica Patterson, Robert Patterson Jr. and Elena Patterson; grandchildren, Cameron Patterson, Bridget Patterson, Christiana Patterson, Kendrick McClain and Araceli Patterson; nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and many other loving relatives and friends.
Pat graduated from Overbrook High School and went on to serve 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, where he retired and up until his death was actively working in civil service managing government contractors for the U.S. Army.
He enjoyed life and was known to quote his motto to all he encountered "Life is Good".
Memorial Services will be held on Thursday, September 12th, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. at Joint Base Elmendorf Fort Richardson commencing to the Fort Richardson National Cemetery. Honors will escort from the gate. Please arrive at 12:40 p.m. and provide a valid drivers license or state I.D.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Patterson Family.
Remembering the love and laughter and good food you shared. Thanks for the memories. Blessings to your family. Tanya
Tanya D Thomas
Friend
September 4, 2023
Hey Boo
Man It's hard to imagine You've been gone for 10 years Seems like we just talked yesterday Well you know what they say .
You die twice When you lay down And the last time somebody says your name . With that being said I guess you exist forever and ever . I miss you and I'm sure That when I say that I'm not only speaking for myself But I'm speaking for Junnie, Dorie,Donnie,and,Mom. Well Rest well my brother Until we meet again Your brother Eric
Eric Patterson
September 4, 2023
Mom, Dorie, Eric, Donnie, our families & myself wish you a happy heavenly 71st birthday. We miss you, we love you & we think about you every single day. When I sleep, it´s like you never departed this place. My dreams still include you as if you are still here. I wake up herein your laugh (oh what a great feeling)! Knowing Dad (as we do); the very first thing he said to you on your birthday was "71 cent"! Ha-ha I can sooo hear him saying that! You KNOW what comes next! "How does it feel to be 71"? We thank God for the many memories that make us smile!
Your brother Junnie and a little of this from Dorie;
Rufus (Junnie) Patterson
Family
April 28, 2023
Hi Pat, I Think of you often and how I became a part of your family. Many hours of sharing fun and laughter.
Love you, Dianne
Dianne Whiting
Friend
September 5, 2022
My precious and beloved daddy, I struggle with your absence everyday, I hear you say "now Roni" ever so clearly. I call on memories of our conversations quite frequently. You were so much more than just my dad, you were my best friend, my guidance counselor, and the greatest man I've ever known.
Cameron, Christiana and I share your wisdom with everyone we encounter. I'm grateful they know you!
Remembering you this day and everyday. Show Love, Spread Good Cheer, God Is Good.
Veronica Patterson
Family
May 30, 2022
Love You, Pat
Dianne Whiting
Friend
September 5, 2021
Hey Boo!
Mom, Eric, Junnie, Donnie, Myself & our families wish you a happy heavenly 69th birthday. We miss you, we love you & we think about you every single day.
Knowing Dad (as we do), the very first thing he said to you on your birthday was "69 cent"! haha I can sooo hear him saying that! You KNOW what comes next! "How does it feel to be 69"? We thank God for the many memories that make us smile!
Dorie
Sister
May 1, 2021
I REALLY, REALLY MISS YOU! Love Always....MOM
Mom
Mother
September 5, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Eric Patterson
Brother
September 4, 2020
Remembering you and the joyful light you shared with us all. Rest In Peace Pat
Tanya D Thomas
Friend
September 4, 2020
Lil Boo Pattersons remarks are right on target. His words left me day dreaming for over an hour. Happy Birthday Boo! 68 Cent! 042852
Rufus Patterson
Brother
April 29, 2020
During this historic COVID-19 global pandemic of the year 2020; I can envision your physical presence communicating a sense of calm and valuable learnings that we could take away from this event.
While everyone is becoming antsy and uncertain of the times, I can see Pat (a.k.a. Big Pat/Boo/Dad/Welo, etc.) sitting outside on his large deck peering out at the views, while multitasking on the grill and talking with his Mom (Nana) on the phone with his brothers and sisters.
Explaining to everyone to make sure everyone has plenty of groceries in the fridge, toilet paper in the closets. Once everyone confirmed they had no surplus issues. He would take a breath of relief and say:
Half of us are going to come out of this quarantine as amazing cooks. The other half will come out with a drinking problem.
Everyone April 28th I hear your voice and am calm and confident that all will be okay. Thank you for the learnings and providing that voice of calm. You are missed and always appreciated.
Happy Birthday!
Lil Boo Patterson
Son
April 28, 2020
Remembering the love the light and the joy of your laughter. May you rest always in Gods Grace. Blessings, Tanya
Tanya D Thomas
September 5, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Rufus Patterson
Brother
September 4, 2019
Happy Birthday Pat! Thinking of you and all the Joyous fun times gone by. Your generosity, kindness and glorious smile will always be remembered. Blessings to you my Brother in Christ.
Tanya D Thomas
September 7, 2018
Miss You, Pat
BX
dianne whiting
September 7, 2018
Hey Big O, .... Still missing you everyday....... I know you and Dad are watching over all of us... a lot of times I feel like you're right here chillin with us.... as a matter of fact, I know you are.. that's why it's so easy to talk to you...... well, just a quick note to let you know that you are loved and missed so much!!!!!!
Donnie
September 6, 2018
Happy Birthday Boo Boo; I was there; I remember the pain (smile) . Mom never forgets. I love you and I miss you. Kiss your Dad and everyone else "up there with you" that we love and miss. I KNOW you're in GOOD company. (smile) Giving Praises & Glory to God Forever. Amen
Mom Patterson
April 30, 2018
Another year has passed, but time seems like it sits still. The sound of your voice, your positive look on life and your most impressive personality remains on this earth though your kids (young Adults). Happy Birthday! As Dad would say 66 cents, Love and miss you very much.
Rufus Patterson
April 28, 2018
Every time someone would ask his age, he would say what's the highway speed limit, and often the response would be 65 MPH, he would respond that's my age.
I can still feel his presence looking down, and today especially saying, "It's my birthday, I am going to the mailbox. Why? Because I know have birthday cards coming to me from all over the U.S.!"
Note: I will not mention the conversation he had with the employees after he arrived at the post office and the mail slot was lacking Birthday cards (e.g. Loudly stating: "Did somebody here STEAL my birthday cards")
As we do each day, and in honor of today, I am with you in saying Happy Birthday Dad! Happy Birthday Boo! Happy Birthday Big Pat! Happy Birthday Cool Dude!
I know he is smiling and can feel the love coming through each of us!
Life is Good!
Pat Patterson Jr
April 30, 2017
Happy 65 Big Guy!
Mom, Dorie, Eric, Junnie, Donnie & our families are loving, missing & thinking about you as you celebrate your 4th birthday in heaven. See you soon...when our time comes to climb that:
STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN
Here we go...Climbing the stairway to heaven.
Here we go...Walking the road of ecstasy.
Taking the load of this whole world off our shoulders.
The door is wide open for you....The door is open for me.
Dorie Patterson
April 29, 2017
The dreams I have of our conversations on current events are very strange, but lord knows I hope that they never stop. Happy Birthday Big Bro! Dad would say "65 cents"
Rufus Patterson
April 28, 2017
Happy Birthday, Pat
dianne whiting
May 11, 2016
I am not surprised to read the new messages celebrating your birth, and remembering your life contributions. There is much love within each one. Keep smiling knowing that precious memories of you help to sustain us in our everyday lives. -GC
Geneva Craig
May 1, 2016
Hey Big O. Happy Birthday big guy.... We don't want to count the days since you went to be with Dad... Because just like dad you are still here with us... We laugh and we hear you, we look at each other and we see you..... We really love and miss you so much... Happy birthday Big O...
Mom, Dorie, Eric, Junnie, and Little O(Donnie) Patterson's
April 28, 2016
Happy Heavenly Birthday Boo! We're taking excellent care of Mom (as we should be). Just know that we'll all be eating Belly-Filler Cheese-steaks later today because we know how much you love them. While you're firing up your heavenly barbecue grill in preparation for your birthday celebration; please take a moment to kiss our kinfolk for those of us that you all left behind. One day we'll all be apart of that joyous reunion...and when that time comes...Lord Have Mercy! ...God KNOWS....it's gonna be a blast. It's gonna be ONE SWEET DAY!!!
Dorie Patterson
April 28, 2016
Happy Birthday Boo, the big 64! A day doesn't go by with out thoughts of your comments or advice. Miss you much Big Bro!
Junnie
Rufus Patterson
April 28, 2016
Can't believe it's been a year and a half plus since your vacay began! I think of your smile and your generosity often. Pat you are truly missed! Happy Birthday. Celebrating you, my Brother in Christ, Tanya
Tanya Thomas
April 30, 2015
Happy Birthday Pat. I know you are keeping everyone laughing in "Heaven" The Blue "ALASKA" Jacket you gave me seventeen years ago still hangs in my closet in full view. Reminding me of the wonderful person who named me "BX".
dianne whiting
April 29, 2015
Your presence is felt by many. Thoughts of you bring joy and smiles. "Life is good"
Geneva
April 28, 2015
We sure are missing you...Happy Birthday Uncle Boo...all I hear you saying is...so I hear your helping populate the world again!!! Hahaha...would always make me feel good about each pregnancy... Love you always
Tiffany Patterson
April 28, 2015
Hey Boo
Happy Heavenly Birthday "Ol Man"!! LOL
Approximately 1 year and 7 months ago, you were called home to join our ancestors. How fascinated & inspired you must be to hear their stories FIRST HAND! If there's any truth to the adage "your ears be burning cause somebody's talkin about ya"......you & Dad's ears must be on fire...because me, Mom, Eric, Junnie & Donnie talk about the two of you every day. We take comfort in knowing that "ONE DAY" we'll all be together again. We love and miss you like crazy. I'm going to stop by your favorite spot in Philly: Larry's (Home of the Belly Filler) and get a cheese steak to celebrate your day. Hug Dad for me. See you guys soon.
Dorie Patterson-Robinson
April 28, 2015
Dorie Patterson
April 28, 2015
A day never passes without my brother in my thoughts. One of his top phases of advice to me was quote The first thing that you do when you are upset is NOTHING unquote. It works! Happy Birthday today! (63 years young) Love and miss you much!
Rufus Patterson
April 28, 2015
My Uncle Pat, the coolest dude that helped open my eyes during my teenage years. The things he said helped me and stayed with me to this day and beyond. Miss You A lot!
April 23, 2015
May you find comfort in remembering your beloved father this Father's Day, and every day.
September 3, 2014
One year later and I agree, Life is Good. I know you are resting peacefully in the arm of the Lord.
Geneva
September 2, 2014
One year later please keep living the good life!
Pat Patterson Jr
September 1, 2014
Sorry for your family loss...Didnt know you in person...We were Facebook friends......Enjoy your post...God be with your family
Michelle
August 30, 2014
Although some time has gone by since the Vacation to Glory began your wonderful spirit remains strong in memory of your unwavering love for your family and friends. Rest in peace, my brother in Christ.
Tanya Thomas
April 30, 2014
Happy Birthday, Pat. Taking the opportunity to wish you a happy birthday is a wonderful thing for me to do. Your presence in this family is strong and positive. Thank you always.
Rosie Unterseher
April 29, 2014
Happy Birthday, Pat
Thanks for everything.
BX
dianne whiting
April 28, 2014
Trini Rincon
April 28, 2014
Happy Birthday Pat!
Your kind and humorous spirit will be missed.
Della Johnson
April 28, 2014
I remember being invitited to a cookout in Anchorage, many years ago and there was the Grill master, What a spread of food and friends. Memories do not fade. Keep the grill hot we will all be there for that reunion soon enough
Rosemary Tucker
April 28, 2014
Birthday prayers and a wish that your eternal peace and happiness be forever a comfort for those who have known you.
Dusty Smith
April 28, 2014
So many quotes I remember from you but my favorite:
Why are you guys sleeping the day away alone.
This and seeing the big fro with the hat driving down the street back when I was in HS classics. Gone but never forgotten.
April 28, 2014
Still missing you Pat. Life is Good but would be a little better if you were still among us. I know that is selfish as you are in a better place. If you're still celebrating birthdays hope this is a great one!
Lydia
April 28, 2014
Hey Boo
We're thinking of YOU with love today.... your 62nd birthday!
Mom, Dorie, Eric, Junnie & Donnie
We're thinking of you with love today,
but that is nothing new.
We thought about you yesterday,
and days before that too.
We think of you in silence,
we often speak your name.
All we have are memories,
and your picture in a frame.
Your memory is our keepsake,
with which we will never part.
God has you in His keeping,
we have you in our hearts.
A million times we`ve wanted you.
A million times we cried.
If love could only have saved you,
you never would have died.
It broke our hearts to lose you.
But you didn`t go alone.
For a part of us went with you...
the day God called you Home.
~Author Unknown
Dorie Patterson
April 28, 2014
My Brother “Boo” I know that we will talk again! A thousand words won't bring you back, I know because I've tried; neither will a million tears, I know because I've cried. I know that we will talk again!
My Dear Brother, I miss you so much! Happy Birthday!!!!
Junnie
Rufus Patterson
April 28, 2014
Today is a day for reverie...bringing to the forefront precious memories of Pat that warm your heart, body and soul. His gregarious personality has left an indelible imprint, I join you in wishing his gracious spirit a hearty Happy Birthday.
Geneva Craig
April 28, 2014
Today, I would like to wish my Father (also known as “Pat”, “Big Pat”, “Boo”, “Abuelo”, “Welo”, “Dad” and let's not forget his personal favorite title “Cool Dude”) a Happy Celestial Birthday! Spiritually I know he is delighted at all of the positive life impacts that are occurring in everyone's lives and I am certain that he feels the love among everyone and with a warm and gracious smile he is saying “Life is Good!”
If you have a moment in your day please join me in wishing his gracious spirit a hearty Happy Birthday!
Pat Patterson Jr
April 28, 2014
Today, I would like to wish my Father (also known as “Pat”, “Big Pat”, “Boo”, “Abuelo”, “Welo”, “Dad” and let's not forget his personal favorite title “Cool Dude”) a Happy Celestial Birthday! Spiritually I know he is delighted at all of the positive life impacts that are occurring in everyone's lives and I am certain that he feels the love among everyone and with a warm and gracious smile he is saying “Life is Good!”
If you have a moment in your day please join me in wishing his gracious spirit a hearty Happy Birthday!
Pat Patterson Jr
April 27, 2014
Big Pat as always you would be so proud of the Nebone & JR.especially Pat JR.he spoke so eloquently in the Mayo Clinic video. way to represent Jr. We miss you and we love you I'm so happy that love is the one thing we always take with us, wherever we go earth or heaven. I know you're smiling & I smiled thinking about you GOD bless you my brother GOD bless you we love you. Vera
VERA Craig
April 5, 2014
Pat Jr, I watched the wonderful commentary you made about your Fathers journey through the Mayo Clinic. May I just say you demonstrated such Grace and tenderness and kindness about your Dad. I was extremely moved and I know your Father shines his love beyond measure on you and your entire family. I keep your family lifted in prayer daily. May your Father rest in peace. Blessings, Tanya
Tanya Thomas
April 4, 2014
He lead a tremendous life! His Son highlights this in a video conducted by the Mayo Clinic, that briefly describes his story. You can click the link (or copy and paste it into your browser):
http://youtu.be/Vw8Jp_iKzb0
Patterson Family
April 2, 2014
PAT I REALLY ENJOYED THE TIMES WE SHARED IN WEST VIRGINIA ; however, family loves you but GOD loves u the most its nice t know while restng in GODS hands that you are o.k.
Sarah Patterson
December 29, 2013
Dearest Geneva & Family, We continue to think of you each and the heart felt sorrow that you cope with each day. Pat had such positive impact on so many individuals lives, so he will be sorely missed and mourned for awhile. We understand that he is at resting peacefully, however at this time, it is still difficult to accept the reality of his death. I pray that God will hold you up and wrap his protective arms around you all forever.
May you be blesses with his sustaining grace and love.
Paulette, & Family
September 30, 2013
To our good friend. Till we meet again. Your in a better place now. Life is good PTA, Hawaii Base Ops
Kenneth Manuel
September 18, 2013
It was a huge blessing to have crossed paths with this wonderful man. We were like family. He taught me so many great things, and there was so much laughter in such a short time. His Hawaii family had a little something to celebrate his life! He'll forever be in our hearts. it's never good byes, A hui hou my friend (until we meet again) Our condolences to the Patterson ohana (family)Much love from Big Island, Hawaii~
Aloha Lime
September 18, 2013
Mr. Patterson made life good for many people here in Hawaii. I for one had a close friendship with him and learned a lot from his advice. Hawaii family love you and many prayers to family members.
Nathan LILLY
Nathan Lilly
September 17, 2013
Boo, you used to say, "Life is Good", but I bet "Heaven is Better". I'm sure that is where you are at now.
To Mom Patterson and the entire family. May God hold you close in this your time of grief. Remember the smile and the heart of Boo, it will keep you strong. My Condolences to you all.
Katrina Wiley
September 14, 2013
My continued Blessings to the Patterson family. The service was touching and a wonderful send off for Big Pat. I will treasure his friendship and outlook on life always! And, yes Janet its me Tanya. Blessings.
Tanya Thomas
September 12, 2013
Uncle Pat, you are an inspiration to me since I graduated High School and is something I will carry me. I won't ever forget the Pots you showed me to make when I visited you and the laughter we shared during those times. You will be sorely missed for as you say "Life is Good". Peace to your future travel.
Darrick Gullett
September 12, 2013
I am sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during these difficult times.
Doug Adams
September 12, 2013
My condolences. Pat's service to our nation will remain a legacy.
Ed Gosline
September 12, 2013
My brother: You will be truly be missed. It was a pleasure an honor to assist you with work projects when I was at Ft. Richardson. Love you bro. Milton
Milton Moore
September 11, 2013
Geneva and The Patterson Family, my deepest sympathy for your loss. The times spent with you and your family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew Pat.
Janet Haynes
September 11, 2013
September 11, 2013
You will be missed brother. Thank you for your service to our nation.
Joe Clay
September 11, 2013
Pat enjoyed life more every single day than some people do in an entire lifetime. I will miss hearing his footsteps in the hall knowing that he would soon walk into my office, sit down, give me a big smile and remind me that Life is Good. Unlike most of us, Pat didn't get stressed out at work. He was always relaxed and his mere presence relaxed others. He made people his priority, ensuring he visited with each person in the office at least once a day. He was extremely generous, always buying enough lunch for four or five people because he figured somebody would want it. He made it a personal mission to keep the candy bowl full for the rest of us. He never complained, even when it was obvious he was in pain.
Pat was an exceptionally wonderful person and I will miss him.
Life is Good, Pat. Rest in Peace.
Verena Hawkes
September 11, 2013
It has been fun getting to know you and working along side you. Thank you for all of our talks about life, love and happiness. You always knew when I had a bad day and you always lifted my spirits. Your smile will be missed. Your family will be in my thoughts; may peace be with you all.
Tracy
September 11, 2013
Rest In Peace Pat, you will always
be remembered, we had some good times
and much much laughter everyday. You touched my heart and many others hearts, you were so very generous and gave so much to others. I don't think I will ever attend another bbq that will be as great as the ones we had here! Your Friend, Karen
September 11, 2013
Pat you will be greatly missed. This place will not be the same with out you. However, we plan on keeping your spirit alive "Life Is Good" Now no more pain and you can rest in peace.
Patricia Hutcherson
September 11, 2013
You will be greatly missed. Your "Life is Good" motto reminded me daily that no matter what we encountered, the breath of Life was so much greater.
Tiffani B
September 11, 2013
May the light of a candle remind us that "Pat" will forever be remembered. May he rest in peace, and that our Lord keep him in his care. Aloha, Ke Akua! We will always remember our time spent in Hawaii.
Ben & Chris Madeira
September 10, 2013
"Welo" you will be missed dearly.... Such a great person with a heart of GOLD!!! We will always remember the wonderful memories we all shared with you & i will NEVER forget "Life is GOOD"... Thank u for all the smiles & laughter :) love u....
RIP Pat
DollyLenchoMarcus Saenz
September 10, 2013
To the Patterson family,
May you find the peace of God in your hearts knowing that there will be no more suffering and that he is in Gods care now.
charles williams
September 10, 2013
it was honor knowing you my brother
murphy guidry
September 10, 2013
Brother Pat, was always a joy to be around, a more positive person will be hard to find. The Air Force and Alaska was good to us, we worked hard and had some very good times. Life was Good. Rest now my Brother.
Richard & Carolyn Walker
September 10, 2013
Bro-In-Law I will surely miss our texts about the salad. Enjoy the steaks, always remenber that you will have a place in our hearts. Rest in peace.
Nancy Gullett
September 10, 2013
Will miss you Pat! Your spirit and joy always shined so bright! Your smile and positive outlook on life was beyond compare, I could always count on your for a kind word, and smile. God Bless. To Pat's family I am truly sorry for your loss.
Sadie
September 10, 2013
While I will miss Pat, I am glad that he is no longer going through the struggles of this world. Now for Pat, truly "life is good". We will meet again on the other side.
Jeannie Johnson
September 10, 2013
I'll miss you so very much my brother. The laughter,that smile and GIRL!
Love you Pat
Veverlyn Carter
September 10, 2013
Thank you for always bringing a positive vibe to the office. Life IS Good!
MAJ Allen
September 10, 2013
I really enjoyed meeting and getting to know Pat while working here in the Contracting Office! You truly will be missed! "Life is Good!"-Val Perry
September 10, 2013
Robert will be missed. May you rest in peace.
September 10, 2013
Pat it was such a blessing to have worked with you for the last couple of years. I am going to miss you and your great big smile. To the Patterson family my prayers are with you and yours. I am so sorry for your loss.
Michelle Nelsen
September 10, 2013
You will certainly be missed, that smile & jolly personality will forever be remembered. My prayers go out to ur family.
Mollerose Carpenter
September 10, 2013
Our Brother Pat, Your Love & Laughter-"Greater Than Life !" I cherish the memories of how you made Nebone & Pat Jr. Laugh and Love so deeply. The Natural-Clown, Mr. Cool-Mc-Cool So very smart, sweet & kind. Heaven must be a happier place now that you're there, I guess. Thanks GOD for allowing him to be my Brother, "He Did Good". See ya soon Bro. Love Ya- Vera
Vera Craig
September 10, 2013
Geneva
My heart is with you. I know that all the love and kindness you have given to those you have loved will give you some peace and comfort now. You and yours are loved.
Jackie Ballard
September 10, 2013
To my Brother in Spirt may you rest in peace. To the Patterson family, may God keep you close in his loving Grace now and forever during this difficult time. Blessings. Tanya
Tanya Thomas
September 10, 2013
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