Michael O'Neill Patterson

Michael O'Neill Patterson, age 92, of St. Louis, passed away Friday, December 26, 2025, at his home. He was born on June 16, 1933, in Alma, the son of Clair V. and Vivian E. (Swank) Patterson.
On August 4, 1956, in Alma, he married Ruth C. Cook, a union of 49 years. She preceded him in death on October 4, 2004. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his son Michael Scott, daughter Karen Sue and son Kevin (Eirinn) O'Neill. His fiancé and best friend from 2005, Elizabeth Myers, until her death on April 29, 2018, and his brother Lyle Dennis Patterson.
Michael graduated from high school in 1951. He served in the US Navy from 1951 to 1955 as a Radarman aboard the destroyer, U.S.S. Conway DDE 507, earning the rate of First-Class Petty Officer. He was a graduate of Central Michigan University, earning a BS and a BA degree. He was employed at Leonard Refineries, later, Total Petroleum, and retired as Corporate Credit Manager and assistant Treasurer.
Michael was a member of several service organizations through the years, including the Junior Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, Alma Elks, the BPOE 1400, Alma VFW Post 1454, Freemasons Alma Lodge 244, a 32-degree Scottish Rite member, and the St. Louis American Legion.
Michael's business organization memberships included the Credit Research Foundation, National Association of Credit Managers, NACM Fraud Prevention Group, and Central Michigan Petroleum Jobbers Association.
He enjoyed hunting and fishing and outdoor activities. He was a lifelong student of art. Painting was a way to express himself. His paintings are enjoyed in the homes, offices, and government buildings throughout the area. He also authored the book, "A Message From Scott."
He is survived by four grandchildren, Michael and Thomas Murton, Theresa Shupe and Ryan Patterson; and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Fred (Carmen) Patterson of Riverdale and his sisters, Sharon (Richard) Smith of Holland, MI and Eileen (Gary) Schaeffer of Farwell.
Per Michael's wishes cremation has taken place with interment to be held at a later date in Riverside Cemetery, Alma.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Lux-Moody-Wolfel Funeral Home, Alma.