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Fred Patten Obituary
When George H.W. Bush was shot down over the Pacific in 1944, a raft designed by Fred F. Patten saved his life.
President-to-be Bush was one of countless military men and civilians who benefitted from the work of Mr. Patten, a Palm Beach Gardens resident who died Wednesday at the age of 96.
Mr. Patten, a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, pioneered inflatable life rafts for use by the Army, Air Force and the Navy's Bureau of Aeronautics.
In 1939 he created the Patten Company, still headquartered in Lake Worth, which was considered the premier provider of inflatable products for the aviation, aerospace and defense industries, including NASA.
According to the company, Mr. Patten began this work after losing a brother in a 1934 Navy plane crash.
He was also the initial project engineer for developing inflatable the decoy deception force deployed to confuse the Germans, before and during the D-Day invasion. The inflated decoys ranged from full-scale landing craft to troop carriers, tanks and B-26 bombers.
The company he founded is today owned by his sons Robert and Stephen Patten.
In addition to his sons, survivors include his wife, Joan Patten; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by Howard-Price Funeral Home, of North Palm Beach.
Staff writer Tracy Tallman contributed to this story.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Fred Patten
Cindy Gregg
October 29, 2009
I am so sorry that I did not know of this sooner. Fred was someone I'll never forget. I am so sorry that I never spoke with him after... My thoughts and prayers are with all.
Lloyd Golden
January 24, 2008
My deepest condolences for your loss. Few people live such full lives and leave such a mark on history. He was a truly remarkable individual.
Mark Anderson
January 24, 2008
"The Chief" had energy, drive, and commitment.
Fred's lifework has saved thousands of American lives
and altered history. Fred always had an encouraging word or idea.
Knowing Fred and his family and his company is a great honor for me.
Fred Patten was a Great American.
Debbie Cherry
January 23, 2008
I worked for Mr.Patten 10 years.A lovelier man I've never met. He shared many beautiful stories with me. I told him that he was refined and that I'm richer to know him. I miss him so.God bless all of you.
Brian Mosher
January 23, 2008
What a wonderful man, My very first job as a kid in Lake Worth was with Patten as well as many of my friends. God bless your family
Christopher Smith
January 22, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sherry Rodia
January 21, 2008
Dear Joan and family, I will always remember Fred`s smile and warmth, as well as yours , when we were neighbors in Palm Beach. You have always remembered me. I love you for that and I am here for you . I am so sorry his time went by too fast. Very fondly yours, Sherry
Rickey & Helen Shepard
January 21, 2008
My deepest sympathies go out to your family. The world has lost a kind and gentleman it was a pleasure working for you. You will be missed by everyone that new you.My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Luise George
January 21, 2008
Fred Patten was the epitomy of a gentleman. Truly a gentleman.
I worked for him for 32 years and considered him my surrogate father. He will be missed my so many people all over the world. His legacy of saving lives will live on forever.
God Bless you.
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