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Dick Van Patten
1928 - 2015
Dick Van Patten
1928 - 2015
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1928
DIED
2015
Dick Van Patten Obituary
Born Dec. 9, 1928, in Queens, New York, Van Patten appeared in dozens of plays as a child. In addition to his role as the patriarch in "Eight Is Enough," Van Patten had starring roles on the long-running television series "Mama" and "Young Dr. Malone." He had memorable roles on television's "The Love Boat" as well as more recently in "Arrested Development" and "Hot in Cleveland."
In addition to his television roles, Van Patten had co-starring roles in feature films such as "Robin Hood: Men in Tights," "Spaceballs," "Soylent Green," and "Charly." In 1985, Van Patten was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame with a star.
Van Patten displayed depth and great story-telling ability in his 2009 autobiography, "Eighty Is Not Enough: One Actor's Journey Through American Entertainment."
An animal enthusiast, Van Patten co-founded Nature Balance Pet Foods in 1989. He also founded National Guide Dog Month, which raises money and awareness for nonprofit guide dog schools.
Van Patten is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Patricia, as well as his three sons, actors Vincent, Nels and Jimmy Van Patten.
238 Entries
Traci Butterworth
June 1, 2025
Rest in piece
Allan C Cales
March 12, 2025
I miss Everyone on eight is enough.
I'm in Toledo Ohio my name is Allan C Cales. I wish I could meet you all.
vic/terry tillinghast
April 17, 2024
dick: r i p we liked you in eight is enough
September 21, 2019
God is a God of all Comfort and he will Comfort the Family's...My condolences to the Family's
How you can show support
September 18, 2019
God is a God of all Comfort and he will Comfort the Family's continuely...My condolences...
Denise Mommsen
June 2, 2019
Thanks for being part of my childhood. Rest in Peace.
A Lee
February 16, 2017
Deepest condolences to Mr Dick Van Patten's loved ones. A great actor who was like a dad to many people because he was so kind. Mr Van Patten will be missed.
Valenda Newell
June 27, 2016
DEEPEST SYMPATHY and PRAYERS to the Van Patten family. GOD is sending strength and courage to cope with this loss.....RIP....LOVE, PEACE and HARMONY
Harry Simpson
June 24, 2016
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us. Godspeed.
Jane Parks-McKay
April 5, 2016
To the Van Patten family: I am so truly sorry for your loss. I met Mr. Van Patten in 1976 in Newport Beach as we were both standing in line to check out of our rooms. We had both taken part in the same event in the ballroom the night before, me mc'ing the show and Mr. Van Patten judging. We immediately struck up a conversation where I admitted I was a bit scared the night before and in his trademark friendly supportive way, he admitted this is a very normal feeling, even for him, a veteran of stage and film. I will never forget his kindness. Of course I was always a fan of his and we all surely miss him. The pet food company he founded is great too. Surely he is gracing Heaven now with his big heart, huge smile and words of encouragement not to mention immense talent and love for creatures, great and small.
Acts 25:8
August 1, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Patricia A. Ware
July 1, 2015
To the family of Dick Van Patten. So very sorry for your loss. He seemed to be so mild mannered. My prayers go out to his entire family and dear friends. May he rest in peace, and that the the Lord give you comfort, peace, and strenghth. God Bless you all.
July 1, 2015
To Dick's Family-my sincere sympathy for the loss of your loved one. The world has lost an outstanding talent and a true gentleman. A Fan
Scott Miller
July 1, 2015
He will be missed and remembered by all who loved and U won't find anyone who didn't. My deepest sympathy to his family.
Nancy Bischoff
June 30, 2015
I will forever remember him as Nels in the sitcom "Mama." He was an amazingly versatile actor and, from all indications, a great person.
Nancy Bischoff
Queens Village, NY
June 30, 2015
To all of Mr Van Patten's loved ones,
I'm so sorry to hear of his passing. I pray that you all find peace and comfort in knowing how beloved he was to so many. Condolences from a fellow Floral Park/Bellerose neighbor.
Diane Donner-Engoron
CHARLES LLOYD
June 30, 2015
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Angela Goodall
June 29, 2015
Mr. Van patten was a great actor and a nice person. As a teen I loved watching eight is enough. Mr Van Patten was perfect for the role of patriarch for this wonderful family. He was a great role model and father figure in real life. My condolences to his family. Angela Goodall(Louisville,Ky.)
June 29, 2015
I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Please find peace and comfort in Psalms 119:76.
Adele C
June 29, 2015
My deepest sympathies to the Van Patton family.
I've been a fan for many years. I never had the privilege of meeting this gentle, talented man. He will be missed by all whose lives he touched. Rest in Peace.
June 29, 2015
Prayers for the family.
June 29, 2015
Great actor. My sincere condolences to the family. John 5:28,20
June 27, 2015
I have always been a fan of the whole Van Patten family. I was shocked and saddened to hear of the news Dick has passed. I enjoyed watching him on multiply shows and with his family. He reminds me in some ways of my own dad. A big hug to the whole family now as going on without him is going to be extremely difficult. He will now be with his acting friends in heaven putting on a wonderful show. The most important thing to remember is - ABSENT FROM THE BODY PRESENT WITH THE LORD!
Wendy Stephenson
Coquitlam, BC Canada
Jean Shaffer
June 27, 2015
Such a great entertainer; he will be missed; condolences to his family
June 27, 2015
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr Patten at a dog show. Very kind & gracious. He always had time for any of his fans. I grew up watching 8 is enough & dreamed they were my family (my family was falling apart at the time). I thank him for the memories & my heart goes out to his family. You were lucky to have him & the world is a better place because he was in it. Kathleen
Kathy
June 27, 2015
Van Patten Family - Was so saddened when I read about Mr. Van Patten's death. Gosh, who didn't know the Van Patten's? We grew up with you via television/Hollywood. Thank you for loving dogs and wanting to make sure they eat well. Sounds silly I know but if you are a true animal lover you can't help but respect Dick Van Patten. We lost a "good one" and yes, he was from the Old Hollywood days which were the good old days. God Bless - Kathy
June 27, 2015
My family and I were always fans of you and your show. We will dearly miss you. May you rest in peace. We send our condolences to your family.
June 27, 2015
Dickie has been like a second dad to me ever since I was in my teens. His passion for life and love for his family has been a wonderful inspiration to me my whole life. He will be missed. Prayers for the whole Van Patten family from me to you.
Lucy Pintouri-Godwin
June 27, 2015
Dearest Dick,
Thank you angel for not only being the example of a wonderful TV dad where we all learned so much....but for being a wonderful example ad a father husband friend to your family and for all your endless love towards animals. God bless you and all who love you.
Love,
Lucy Pintouri-Godwin
(Davis)
June 27, 2015
Our deepest condolences for your family. May your loving memories hold close in your heart and God's love give you peace and comfort. (Psalm 83:18)
Lisa Weiner
June 27, 2015
To Dick Van Patten,
You were a very talented actor. You did a great job playing Tom Bradford on the series Eight is Enough. My prayers and thoughts go to your family and friends. Lisa Weiner
Becky O.
June 27, 2015
For Betty Buckley and the Eight is Enough family, in memory of your dear friend, Dick Van Patten.
Leticia Mauricio
June 27, 2015
Great actor loving dad on his Eighth is Enough role
RIP Mr Van Patten my dogs thank you for your great foundation a real humanitarianGod bless you prayers to your family & children
June 27, 2015
May God give the family peace. So very sorry for your loss.
June 27, 2015
Sincere condolences to the family. 2nd Corinthians 1: 3, 4
darlene
June 26, 2015
May he rest in peace prayers for him and his family
ann eltz
June 26, 2015
Rest in peace Mr Dick Van Patten, you will be missed.
Lorraine Pieper
June 26, 2015
I loved him in the role as eight is enough and love boat he will be missed what a wonderful actor
Mike Sekulic
June 26, 2015
What a kind and wonderful person he was. The Lord blessed him with a gentle nature and a compassionate spirit.
Rita S.
June 26, 2015
I was so sorry to read about the loss of him. My prayers are with his family. That was one of my fav shows, "Eight is Enough". I loved it. He also co-founded a great pet product and my cats love that food so thank you Dick Van Patten = you will be truly missed but always remembered.
Lisa Weiner
June 26, 2015
To Dick Van Patten,
You were a very talented actor. I enjoyed watching on the series eight is enough. My prayers go to your family and friends. Lisa Weiner
Lisa Weiner
June 26, 2015
To Dick Van Patten,
You were a very talented actor. You did a great job playing Tom Bradford on the series Eight is Enough. My prayers go to your family and friends. Lisa Weiner
Melinda Taylor
June 26, 2015
God Call a Angel home God Bless Your FamilyThey are in my Prayers
Carolynn Jones
June 26, 2015
you will be missed
Glenda Bonshire
June 26, 2015
Dick you will be missed very much by your fans Sincerly one of your fans
Deanna Haynes
June 26, 2015
To God be the glory for everything He has done, I want to extend my condolences to Ms. Patricia and the family of Mr. Dick Van Patten. I was saddened when I learned of Mr. Patten's passing. I used to watch Eight is Enough as a kid and LOVED that show. May God comfort each of you as only He can and may you find peace in His presence.
June 26, 2015
I am so sorry for your lost.Your family are in our prayers.
Hosey
June 26, 2015
Dick Van Patten family I am so sorry for your loss. I always love watching his shows on TV. May God bring you comfort at this time.
Ruby
June 26, 2015
My sorrow to family
Judy Gafford
June 26, 2015
What a great loss for his family of origin and the many families on t.v. that he has touched. I watched him for many years while raising our 5 children. He definitely was a role model for many of us. All of us are still big fans of the Van Patten's. May he rest in oeace and his family be comforted knowing many will miss his talent, his humor, and his graciousness.
June 26, 2015
A great talent is gone. At times like this we remember Jesus words in the scriptures. He promised "he that exercises faith in me,even though he dies,will come to life." Rest in peace.
Pearl Manning
June 26, 2015
"Eight is Enough" is one of the all time family shows...wish we had more family entertainment like that today. I am so sorry to hear about Dick Van Patten's death. To the family, remember that God knows your pain, he cares, and will give you the strength and comfort you need - 1 Peter 5:6,7.
June 26, 2015
Great actor he will be missed.
Amy
June 26, 2015
My heartfelt sympathies go out to the family and friends during this difficult time. I hope that the promise found in 1 Thessalonians 4 : 14 can bring you some comfort. Knowing that there is a future for the ones we have lost in death can be so reassuring.
Lisa
June 26, 2015
May the "God of all comfort" be with the family at this time, so sadden for the lost. Really enjoyed watching Eight is Enough. Very clean family show. He is going to be missed.
Carla Berry
June 25, 2015
You will be missed!!!!
Lisa Bartholomey
June 25, 2015
I was so sad to learn that Dick Van Patten had passed away a couple of days ago. I always enjoyed his smile and the energy and enthusiasm he possessed on the screen. I never missed an episode of Eight is Enough-- I loved the show and cast and was particularly fond of him in the role of the father, Tom Bradford. It's obvious that he was a stand up guy both personally and professionally! My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and children.
M Ceili
June 25, 2015
I light a candle so all may know death has taken another soul.
Ruby Hood
June 25, 2015
I watched "I Remember MaMa" when I was just a kid. It was my mother's favorite TV show. I also loved "Eight Is Enough" as a grownup with children of my own and loved every episode. I thought Dick was a wonderful actor and, although I didn't know him personally, thought he was a wonderful man. My condolences to his family.
Tonia Lenza
June 25, 2015
I loved Eight is Enough he was a great father on that show and my condolences to his family he will be missed
Betty
June 25, 2015
I loved the tv show eight is enough. Please accept my deepest condolences. My the God who is with the brokenhearted be with the Van Patten family.
June 25, 2015
I was a little girl, when "Eight is Enough" came on. It was a good family show. The Van Patten family has our condolences.
The Pittman Family
June 25, 2015
Wit sympathy to your entire family. Dick thank you for your wonderful smiles and all the entertainment you gave us.You were a true master at your craft.Thank you to your family for sharing you with us.Rest well in heaven.God Bless!
Whnonia
June 25, 2015
Kenneth and are truly sorry for the loss of one who was so very entertaining. We pray that God(Psalms 83:18) give you comfort and support during this most difficult time.
sheila manning
June 25, 2015
G-d bless you, Dick. You were always so kind and gentle and soooo patient with those around you.
My love to all of your wonderful family...
Giles Family
June 25, 2015
I am sorry for this sad loss,(Psalm 46:1) God is our strength and refuge.
Elizabeth Durand
June 25, 2015
Deepest sorrow for the family. God's word the bible can be a comfort of source.
June 25, 2015
Jimmy Nels and Vince we first met at the set of 3 for the road and I was in an episode or so with you...
Your dad and I played tennis together at the BILL COSBY CELEBRITY TENNIS TOURNAMENT at Kings Harbor in Redondo Beach in the early 80's he just stood there hitting the balls back and forth to side to side till i passed out practically i was in my early 20's and played as a celebrity for some reason lol I am friends with Vince Spadea and Dino Schofield and know that this is the biggest loss to your family ever...I lost my dad a few years ago...I hope you remember the good times like i have of you guys and your dad...Love from my family to yours
BILL MARGOLIN
June 25, 2015
Sincere condolences to Dick's family. He provided us with many laughs on many shows. He is gone to rest and we will miss him but we will continue to enjoy his talent and laugh everytime we watch him. (John 11:11, 5:25)
Sonia, New York
Tony Beratano
June 25, 2015
I met Dick in Vegas, back in the seventies. A real gentleman and a great actor too. RIP Dick !
Kimberly Marshall
June 25, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
June 25, 2015
My deepest sympathy to the families and friends for your great loss of Mr. Van Patten. God is your stronghold during this difficult time and is the hearer of your prayers. I hope your many beautiful memories bring you some comfort to endure. Psalms 102:1-2.
June 25, 2015
"Mama", As a young girl, I watched this show. As an adult I watched Eight is Enough. He seemed to be the kind of father ( TV character- father) that would have come from the experience of Nels on the show " I Remember Mama". I will always remember the introduction (opening) of the show and the words, " and most of all, I remember Mama".
Condolences to your family, Rest in Peace Dick Van Patten, glad to have had you in our living room.
L. Damus , Miami, Fl
Danell Barrett
June 25, 2015
Great Dad on the show (eight is enough), enjoyed the show, good family show. To the family of Van Patten, so sorry for your loss. May he RIP!
Lynn
June 25, 2015
I am sorry for your loss .Cherish your fond memories.Draw close to God in prayer during this difficult time -James 4:8
Barbara Walker
June 25, 2015
Condolences to the Van Patten family. Thank you for sharing Dick with us ...enjoyed all his acting roles.. and especially appreciative of his support, concern and care for companion animals
cheryl martin
June 25, 2015
lovetowatchdickoneightisenough he wasa great fatherfigure.iwillmisshim
Wayne Bruce
June 25, 2015
Thank you for all the laughs. Now go make God laugh Lol
June 25, 2015
Saddened to hear of your loss. Great actor on one of my favorite shows. May prayers and precious memories comfort loved ones.
kathy yukess
June 25, 2015
lamsoryaboutdickvanpatenheiaegoodactor
June 25, 2015
My sympathy to Van Patten Family. He was a great actor, I too remember him playing Nills on I remember Moma, when growing up. I think it was done live if I'm not mistaken. He started many years of great natural acting. May He RIP-God bless you all. Peggy from New Jersey
Lesie Santana
June 25, 2015
Please accept my condolences for your loss. Remember the words of Daniel 12:13 which tells us that our loved ones after resting, will stand again. Keep the memories shared close in heart and mind. Many thoughts and prayers are with you now and in days to come.
June 25, 2015
Rest in Peace, Mr. Patton. I grew up watching you on Eight is Enough and fell in love with you. If all dads were as sweet as you, this world would be such an awesome place. We love you and will miss you. Ponda Ball Dry Branch GA
Renee Levine
June 25, 2015
He was one of my favorites! I'm sorry he is gone now and my deepest sympathies to his family and all his friends. He will surely be missed in this life. God be with you and bless you all.
Sharon Ellwood
June 25, 2015
A Wonderful Actor and a gracious, humble man. I loved watching all of his movies and his tv shows. He will be missed. Thank you for sharing him with us.
June 25, 2015
Our sympathies to the Van Patten family and our hope that the God of all comfort strengthens you through this difficult time. He will be missed.
June 25, 2015
My deepest sympathy. May the God of all comfort strengthen your family during this time of sorrow. God keeps those who die in his memory because he cares, and they are precious in his eyes- Psalms 116:15
Dotty
June 25, 2015
I was sorry to read about the loss of your loved one. You have my condolences. Our Heavenly Father cares for us. 1 Peter 5:6-7
June 24, 2015
Bless you dick I hope you're resting in heaven
Earl Spann
June 24, 2015
We had good times on the set.And the horse track. You will be missed
Allan Cales
June 24, 2015
From The Cales Family From Toledo Ohio. You will be messed by all. R I P Mr. Dick Van Patten.
June 24, 2015
Special memories of my favorite childhood tv program - 'I Remember Mama' - Nels, the family's only son. What a wonderful entertainer - RIP Dick Van Patten
Lancaster, PA
Terry
June 24, 2015
To the Van Patten Family, this was a great man. Far from just his acting, he was a great husband, father, grand father and friend. He raised his sons in a very hard town for young ones staying out of trouble. If they did get in trouble, he and his wife dealt with it out of the press. I had read many years ago when a couple of the actors from eight were out of control and he had been there for them. That is a very caring man!!!
When he got into the dog food business, I had hoped to get to meet him at one of the trade shows. My husband was a pet supply distributor and meet him twice. I did not get the chance but had hoped.
He was old Hollywood, which are the best. They marry for love and stay married, he set good examples for the younger actors that will never have the respect of the fans or the people that watched his years of acting. He was a great man and I am very sorry for your loss.
Opana Kzia
June 24, 2015
So sorry of his passing....Condolences to his family.
Loved in him 8 is enough...
June 24, 2015
To the family of Dick Van Patten my deepest sympathy on death of such wonderful actor. I grew up watching eight is enough it was a very inspiring show. My god bring you peace during this distressing time
Corletta Hardy
June 24, 2015
To the family and friends and fans of MR.DAN Van Patten.God send your holy spirit to comfort everyone's heart.He will be missed but he will never be forgotten.His movies and sitcoms will always remind us of what a great man he were.His work is done on earth now he can rest in his heavenly home.
Patty saling
June 24, 2015
To Tom Bradford rest in peace you are good actor
June 24, 2015
im so sorry to hear about Dick he was loved by all his fans .
I used to see Mr. V and his son body surfing at Venice Beach usually in the late afternoon. He was always very approachable and had that great smile.
Jeff Dllon
June 24, 2015
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