Albert Patterson

Albert "Al" Dow Patterson, 87, born October 24, 1938, passed away on December 22, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska. He was born in Wichita, Kansas, to Ross and Leona Patterson, and raised there with a strong sense of family, and humor that would define his life.

Al was a proud multi-sport athlete in his youth, lettering in football, basketball, and golf. Golf, in particular, became a lifelong love, one that stayed with him long after the scorecards were forgotten.

He served his country in the United States military from 1959 to 1961, earning the rank of Specialist. Following his service, Al pursued higher education with a determination that set him apart. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Wichita State University, his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Alaska, and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Puget Sound. Al was especially proud to be the first member of his family to attend college, a milestone he carried with quiet pride.

Al spent several years working for the federal government with the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Bureau of Land Management before deciding to take a bold turn and attend law school. He practiced law in private practice for many years, eventually retiring to Arizona. Retirement, however, didn't quite stick. He was twice "lured back" into public service, first as an Assistant Municipal Prosecutor and later as the Municipal Prosecutor, roles he approached with intelligence, integrity, and his signature wit.

In 2021, Al returned to Alaska for good, a place that always felt like home.

Above all else, Al was a devoted husband, extraordinary father and grandfather. Married almost 60 years, he and his wife, Linda, set a strong example of wedded commitment. Through every up and down they were in it together. He never missed an activity his daughters participated in and showed up consistently, and proudly. He was known for his unmatched ability to tell a dirty joke, his impeccable comedic timing, and his deep love for movies that made him laugh, especially those by Mel Brooks and Monty Python. If it was irreverent, clever, or downright inappropriate, Al was all in.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ross and Leona Patterson.

Al is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; his daughters, Angela Patterson, Rebecca (Mark) Karstetter, and Pamela (Mike) Webb; his seven grandchildren, Prima, Jack, Walter, Quinn, Rose, and Joe Webb, and Martin Karstetter; his older brother, Marion Patterson; his sisters and brothers-in-law; many cousins, nieces, nephews, and far too many friends to count.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 21, 2026, in Wasilla, Alaska, with an open house at the home of his daughter, Rebecca, from 2-7 pm. Please call 907-782-8687 for the address. Laughter is encouraged, stories are welcome, and quoting Monty Python would be entirely appropriate.