John Stephen Paterson

John Stephen Paterson, age 78, of Sandusky, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at McKenzie Health Systems.

He was born on November 13, 1947 and raised by Leonard and Virginia (D'Hondt) Paterson. John married his wife Paula on March 16, 1974 and they recently celebrated 52 years of marriage.

John attended Alma College, where he earned a B.A. in History in 1969 and then attended Detroit College of Law, where he earned a J.D. in 1972. Following graduation, John joined Paterson & Paterson in Sandusky, where he practiced law for over 50 years. He spent 25 of those years practicing with his father and he and the firm's "senior partner" often had spirited legal debates.

When he wasn't working, John pursued a variety of interests and hobbies. He was a connoisseur of cars, boats, and motorcycles. He collected art, antiques, and rugs. He found joy in Saturday morning breakfasts with friends, swims at the lake, and bargain hunting at flea markets. He found peace over the years tending to his flower gardens, caring for his horses, and tinkering in his shop, where he pretended to fix things. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family and taking his children and grandchildren on countless adventures and field trips that exposed them to new things and different perspectives.

John was known for his intelligence, quick wit, and sense of humor. He had an insatiable curiosity and although he was rarely seen reading a book, he had what seemed to be an encyclopedic knowledge of almost any topic, especially history, music, and culture. He naturally found himself holding court and telling stories, but he was always listening and could remember the smallest details about everyone he met. He had an uncanny ability to relate to and hold a conversation with anyone. Despite his larger-than-life personality, he quietly and generously helped and looked out for those who needed it most.

John had a knack for making life fun, interesting, and always memorable. He will be missed.

John is survived by his wife, Paula Paterson; children, Neil (Jennifer) Hayes, Stephen (Heather) Paterson, John (Aleksandra) Paterson and Clark (Meg) Paterson; grandchildren, Will Hayes, Sarah Hayes, Charles Paterson, Frederick Paterson, Leonard Paterson, Agnes Paterson, Matthew Paterson, Elaine Paterson and Georgina Paterson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Virginia Paterson.

The family will receive visitors from 4-7 PM on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at Marsh Funeral Chapel, Sandusky, and from 10-11 AM on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Sandusky.

A Funeral Mass will take place at 11 AM on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Sandusky with Father Amal Raj Madanu officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made in John's name to Sandusky District Library.

Friends may share an online condolence at www.marshfuneral.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Marsh Funeral Chapel, 396 South Sandusky Road, Sandusky, MI 48471. Phone 810-648-2244.