Tom Patterson

1937 - 2025

Tom Patterson

April 1, 1937 - December 19, 2025

Tom R. Patterson, of Lincoln, Neb., passed peacefully to heaven on December 19, 2025.

Tom was born on April 1, 1937, to John and Ruth Patterson in Ardmore, Okla. His mother, "Mama Ruth" encouraged Tom's lifelong interest in other cultures and people of various ethnic backgrounds. Tom's playmates were multicultural, and his childhood was filled with their cherished, free-spirited treks around Ardmore's small-town neighborhoods and the nearby Arbuckle mountains.

A graduate of Ardmore high school in 1955, Tom earned a bachelor's degree from Oklahoma State University. He served in the U.S. Army, where he further developed his invincible adventurous spirit (and love of good beer) while stationed in Germany.

Early in his adult life, Tom learned the value of a good work ethic as he labored on an oil rig off the Texas coast. Tom spent most of his career working in various positions for Grain Dealers Mutual Insurance Company in Indianapolis. A funny, gregarious and fun-loving man, Tom never knew a stranger. His clients became friends, and his friends became clients.

Tom also met Debbie, the love of his life and wife of 40 years, in Indianapolis. Tom was grateful for his early retirement and enjoyed many journeys with Debbie, his son David, and many good friends. Early in his retirement, following a mid-life heart attack, Tom persevered through rehabilitation then completed his formidable goal of climbing Machu Picchu in Peru. Fulfilling that dream only made Tom's courageous spirit grow stronger. His worldwide treks included countries in Europe, Central and South America, the Middle East, and the Caribbean Islands.

He delighted in annual trips with Debbie, David and friends to their vacation home on Captiva Island, Fla. He also experienced most parts of the U.S., including after 2007 when Tom and Debbie moved to Nebraska, enthusiastically learning much about their new home state (and its football team). And, of course, he was always up for a nostalgic trip back to his treasured Oklahoma for some reminiscing…with authentic fried pies.

Everywhere Tom lived and traveled, he met new friends. He thrived on sharing stories and learning more about others. He also took great joy in giving random assistance and rides to those in need along the way. An avid reader, Tom was especially knowledgeable of and enjoyed discussing all things historical, including archeology and anthropology. Especially close to his heart were his many conversations and precious time spent with David.

Grateful to have shared his life are his wife; son; sister, Martha (Marty) Anderson of La Quinta, Calif.; his nieces, Laurie, Jayna, and Catherine; and very spoiled pups, Henri and Bear. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Shirley Rison; brother, John; nephews, Joe and Johnny; and niece, Lisa.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom's honor to: Wounded Warriors Family Support at wwfs.org. A Celebration of Life in Lincoln and private family gathering in Oklahoma will both be held at later dates.

Condolences online at www.bmlfh.com