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James Patterson Obituary
JAMES E. PATTERSON
Feb. 15, 1921 - May 18, 2008
James "Pat" Patterson, 87, of Imperial (one of the last living survivors of the USS Yorktown) lost his final battle on Sunday, May 18, 2008 with his family at his side.
James was born February, 15, 1921 in Mattoon, Illinois. He honorably served six years in the U.S. Navy during WWII, fighting for our country at the Coral Sea, the Battle of Midway and many other battles. He survived the sinking of the U.S.S. Yorktown at the Battle of Midway and also saw action in Guam, Layte, and Okinawa; earning six Battlestars.
He was named outstanding Veteran Leader in 1999-2000, served as All-State Post Commander VFW 3255 and Co-Captain. Pat was active in Veteran's employment, Freedom Fest, Sunset retreat, Memorial and Veteran's Day services, POW-MIA services, United Veteran's Council, the Veteran Advisor and Americanism and Loyalty. He was always available to speak publicly, sharing the important role the Navy played in WWII. Pat was an active member of St. Anthony's Church, a life member of the VFW and plank member of the Naval Air Station. He was a member of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, Korean Veterans, board member of the U.S.S. Yorktown CV5 Club and a past member of the Knights of Columbus.
He proudly took part in patriotic ceremonies and walking in parades wearing his Navy uniform. He paraded with other Yorktown survivors in the Congressional Medal of Honor Society Parade in Saratoga Springs, NY in 1998.
While stationed in El Centro, during the commissioning of the N.A.F., he met his wife to be, Edna Whelan. They were married 65 years ago on May 10, 1943. They adopted two children, Deborah (in 1952) and James Patrick (in 1956).
Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, May 22 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hems Bros. in El Centro. Rosary will be said at 7 p.m.
A military service celebrating Pat's life will be officiated by Father Craig Haider on Friday, May 23 at St. Anthony's Church in Imperial, commencing at 10 a.m.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Edna; daughter, Deborah (both of Imperial); son, James (Florida); grandchildren and their spouses, Tammy DuShey (Nathan) of Hawaii, Kevin Bulish (Lisa) of Vacaville, John Pritting (Tristan) of Woodland, Tiffany Marshand (Chris) and Ryan Patterson (of Florida); great-grand children, Kiara and Kade DuShey, Destiny Marshand, Rylie Bulish, his only surviving sister Martha Oye of Illinois; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Anthony's Church (building fund) in Imperial, CA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Patterson
Sponsored by VFW VETS Holtville & El Centro.
Judy Morse
May 16, 2023
This week we toured the Midway and saw a video about the USS Yorktown. I told the people about Mr. Patterson and how proud he was that he could still fit in his Navy uniform. I also mentioned how he told me it wasn't the original as that one was lost on the USS Yorktown. I remember him taking time to tell me about his Navy days and his angel was definitely kept busy. It was an honor to know this sweet man and to call him a friend. Please know he was loved by many and will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Arthur Willis
June 15, 2008
Pat Bertha and I look forward to seeing your family, friends and fellow VETS on this site for a long long Time. Art Willis, CDR USN Retired. 1954-1974
Dick & Deb Sawyer
June 2, 2008
Edna, Jim & Debbie
His never ending smiles and stories will be just a small part of what we miss. Uncle Jim's endless love that he had for family is what will stay with us forever.
May God Bless all of you and keep you in his arms. With Our Love,
Lorraine & Ed Sawyer
June 1, 2008
When I met Uncle Jim I thought he was one of the most interesting men i had ever met.He was a ray of sunshine in our lives. We will miss him. We Love you all Ed and Lorraine
Debbie Pritting
May 29, 2008
Dad was so proud to have served his country and to still be able to wear his uniform. I remember him Marching in the Color Guard down main st. then 8th for the Christmas Parade carrying a flag that I know just about weighed as much as he did. He made it all the way!! So Proud!!!
I am missing him more as each day passes.
Until we meet in Heaven......I love you Daddy
Brent Converse
May 29, 2008
I only had the chance to met Mr Patterson "senior" on two occasions, vacation trips for him to Florida to visit his son's family. However, the brief meetings confirmed what I already knew of him through years of knowing his son as the apple hadn't fallen far from the tree. Many words can be used to describe both Patterson men: honest, forward, kind, hardworking, trustworth, and devoted. People you are proud to call your friends!
Dad, Mom and me in Hawaii 11-2007
James Patterson
May 26, 2008
Dad was a wonderful man who always took the time to share his experience in the navy with everyone. He loved people and would always give them the benefit of the doubt when I thought they were going to take advantage of him, but in time I figured out the lesson that He was teaching me! You could always count on Dad for help and support in every situation, good and bad. Dad loved his family, his country, his faith and friends. Dad would defend anyone of them with his life if necessary. You are my Father, my teacher and my friend. Dad I love you and will miss you dearly. Your son, James P. Patterson
Judy Morse
May 26, 2008
Mr. Patterson was a wonderful gentleman and a true American Hero who served his country his entire life. He was an inspiration to all and it was a privilege to know him.
May God be with your family.
felix ramirez
May 24, 2008
Always will be considerd part of the U.S. Greatest Generation.
Arlyn Duval
May 22, 2008
I only knew Pat for the past few years--- and enjoyed his company greatly. He was always a pleasure to talk to and was always cheerful.
And always looked wonderful in that Navy uniform that still fit perfectly after so many years! He will be missed greatly....
Rose Ann McCullough
May 22, 2008
Debbie and Family,
My prayers go out to you and your family. I knew pat for many years and I will miss his stories about the war. I always looked forward to seeing him and talking with him. He will be missed dearly. If you need anything please call me ..
Lynn Lawrence
May 22, 2008
Debbie and Family;
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Art and Bertha Willis
May 21, 2008
Edna, Debbie, Jimmy and Family,
Bertha and I will miss Pat, for Pat, a true Hero, see you on the other side
Shirl & Michael Henderson
May 21, 2008
Debbie and family
We are so sorry for your loss, as Linda said we are hear for you and your family let us know.
Karen Eyer Chipp
May 21, 2008
Aunt Edna, Debbie, and Jimmy,
I am so so sorry to hear that Uncle Smitty has passed. He is in good company now with Grandpa and Grandma, my little brother John, and I am sure lots of his good buddies. What a wonderful and kind man he was! Always smiling and had open arms for everyone. When I think of Uncle Smitty it always brings a smile to my face. I know your loss is great, my thoughts and prayers are with you all! My Love to you all.
Michael and Elaine Hackett
May 21, 2008
Debbie and Family, we are so sorry to learn of your Dad's passing. He was so tough and so considerate of others. After learning about my own father's sinking in the Pacific, he came by our home and loaned me a book telling of the battle that resulted in Dad's destroyer going down. May he always have fair winds and calm seas.
Linda Fitch
May 20, 2008
Edna, Debbie, Jimmy and Family,
What a tremendous loss for you and for us (all who had the privilege of meeting your husband, father, grandfather, et al.) Not many of us can boast of having a relationship with a true American hero. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to make his acquaintance.
Please know that the Imperial Valley community is there for you in mourning his passing. Just let us know what we can do and we are there - anytime for anything!
With much love and the greatest respect,
Members KWVA, Chapter 102
May 20, 2008
Pat was one of our members at the K.W.V.A., We always enjoyed having him with us at the meetings and in the parades, thou he always wanted to walk, and not ride. He was always ready with a smile, a kind word, and a warm handshake. He will be missed, but now, will be walking streets of gold.
Judy Schuster
May 20, 2008
Edna, Debbie and Jimmy:
Pat was a wonderful person and a true treasure from God. I am thinking of you at this time and wish you all peace and love. I remember Pat for squatting and sorting rocks in the yard hours on end and believe he is in Heaven sorting pebbles for God. I know he is having a great time sharing stories with all his old friends. God made a great man when he made Pat and we were all blessed to have known him. I love you all and miss him with you.
Doug Byram
May 20, 2008
Pat was dear friend and will be missed by all of us.
Howard Stevens
May 20, 2008
Please accept our upmost sympathies. Pat, we'll miss your interesting stories about your U S Naval experiences during WW II. You were a true hero to us.
Howard & Marie Stevens
Jessica Brigman
May 20, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to Mr. Patterson's family. I had the privalege of knowing Mr. Patterson for the past 25 years. I worked at several car dealerships and he was a wonderful customer, but more importantly he was a kind hearted, loving, caring & wonderful human being. I enjoyed talking with him over the years. He always had a smile on his face. He will be missed.
God bless you and may He comfort you and give you strength.
Fran (Vessey & Co.) Brand
May 20, 2008
I did not know Pat personally, only thru Jon Vessey and Carmen Johnson. He came in the office frequently and I do consider him one of America's Heros. I feel honored to have met him.
RON AND NANCY VACHON
May 20, 2008
EDNA, DEB, AND JIM ,
YOUR DAD WILL REMAIN DEEP IN OUR HEARTS WITH THE COURAGE AND THE PLEASURES HE'S SHARED . WE THANK GOD FOR THE TIME WE HAD - WE LOVED HIM TOO !
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