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Charles Patterson Obituary

CHARLES W. PATTERSON, 78 ROCKFORD - Charles W. Patter-son, 78, of Rockford passed away sud-denly, Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2009, in his home. Born March 6, 1930, in Rock-ford, the son of Joseph and Virginia (Wharton) Patterson. Married Cynthia "Cyndie" Koerber on June 9, 1951, in Fort Wayne, Ind. Charles was officer and owner of J.H. Patterson Co. Lifelong member of Second Congregational Church, where he served as chairman for the board of deacons and as a moderator. Past president of the Rockford Downtown Rotary Club. Board member and docent at Klehm Arboretum, board member for Greenwood Cemetery for 30 years, and board member at Wesley Willows. Active with the Rock Valley College Center for Learning in Retirement. Graduated from Northwestern University, where he was a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity. Charles enjoyed a variety of activities such as hunting, fishing, sailing, reading, cooking and especially loved exploring the world with his wife of 58 years. Upon his retirement, Door County was their special retreat. Survived by wife, Cynthia; children, David (Carol) Patterson, Laurie (James) Freeman and Steven (Rosie) Patterson, all of Rockford; grandchildren, Krista Patterson of New York, N.Y., Nicole Patterson of St. Louis, Karen Patterson, Joseph Patterson and Andre Freeman of Rockford; sister, Ruth Ann "Pat" Sturtevant of Sarasota, Fla.; and several extended family members. Predeceased by his parents. Memorial service at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13, in Second Congregational United Church of Christ, 318 N. Church St., with the Revs. J. Michael Solberg and Matthew C. Emery officiating. Memorial visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12, in Olson Funeral and Cremation Services Ltd., Fred C. Olson Chapel, 1001 Second Ave. Memorials may be made to Klehm Arboretum and Second Congregational Memorial Fund. To send a private condolence, visit olsonfh.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Rockford Register Star from Jan. 10 to Jan. 16, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
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Angelika (Kluever)Streck

January 16, 2009

Cyndie & the Patterson family - I am so sorry to hear of "CWP" passing. I wish I would have known sooner, I would have been at the service. I often think back to the times working at Patterson Lumber. His initials were very appropriate for the lumber business. Since the doors closed I've often wondered how Dave & Steve have managed. Sometimes it feels like only last year we all worked together and then again it seems like a lifetime ago.
My prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Vickie Fogel

January 13, 2009

Cyndie & Family - Upon hearing of Chuck's passing, my thoughts instantly returned to the time of my employment as Special Events Director at Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden. Chuck was instrumental in bringing me up to speed with the events, history of the development of Klehm, basic plant information (he always teased me I had a anything except green thumb), and so much more. Chuck & Cyndie were always at the ready when volunteers were needed for the events - or anything else! His knowledge of the treasury of plants at Klehm was amazing!!! I was blessed to have had the experience! My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Chele Carney

January 13, 2009

Patterson Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I love you guys very much!

Valerie Johnson

January 13, 2009

Cyndie and family, Chuck was such a wonderful resource and friend during my tiime at the Arboretum and a great supporter back when I worked at Children's Development Center too when we did a playhouse project. My thoughts and prayer are with you all. What a loss to many. He lived a good life and was a role model for many.

David North

January 13, 2009

I will miss Chuck as a lifetime friend having known his since first grade.

Heartfelt condolences go out to his family.

Laura Wyatt

January 12, 2009

It is with deep sadness that I express condolences to Cyndie and family. Chuck was a valuable member of the NIBS Board and deeply involved in the development of the Klehm Arboretum and Gardens. Chuck was so generous in sharing his knowledge and skills gained through his life-long career as a business owner and equally generous in devoting hours of time to development of the arboretum grounds and gardens and special events. Most importantly he shared the "magic" of the Klehm plant collection with visitors as a docent. The Rockford community and all of us are so much better for being able to work along side this generous man. My thanks to Cyndie and family for allowing us to share in your family treasure.

Ann (Lillie) Farrell

January 12, 2009

Patterson Family, I pray that the Lord gives you peace during this time of sorrow. May you be blessed by fond memories and the peace of knowing that Chuck is with Jesus now.

In Christ.

Debbie Storck

January 12, 2009

Dear Cyndie and family; We are so sorry to read about Chuck's passing, I certainly enjoyed seeing him and you at the Arboretum, and working together with him on projects at Klehm. Our thoughts are with you at this time.
Debbie Akerman Storck and family.

Howard Bell

January 12, 2009

Cyndie, Nadine and I fondly remember our times with you and Chuck in the Congregators at 2nd Congregational Church and the bridge group in the 1950s. I also remember the wonderful customer relationships with Chuck and the Company at First National Bank. God bless you and your family during this grieving time.

Greg Smith

January 11, 2009

Dearest Cyndie,

We are very sorry to hear of Chuck's passing. We often visited with him when we would meet him walking in the neighborhood.

He was always so happy to visit with us and we will miss running into him.

Our deepest sympathy to you and your family,
Sincerely,
Greg and Darrah Smith
2623 Cerro Vista

Jeanne Floberg

January 11, 2009

Cyndie,
True friends are a treasured gift from God. You and Chuck took such good care of me after John died. I shall miss Chuck's, "Hi, Jeanne, we'll pick you up." David, Laurie and Steve. A warm hug to you all. Sorry I'm not with you.
Jeanne Floberg (aka Aunt Jeanne)

January 11, 2009

Laurie and family
Our prayers are with you and your family in your time of need. God bless
AFSCME Local 692

Arlene & Don Snap

January 10, 2009

Cyndie, I am sending my deepest sympathy to you and your family in the the loss of Chuck. Being in Florida right now, I am unable to help in some small way during this time of sadness. However, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Blessings to you and your children.

Allan Geddes

January 10, 2009

My brother, Gordon, called this morning with the sad news. My letter follows.

My prayers are with you all.

Allan Geddes

Gordon Thorell

January 10, 2009

Cindie,
Nancy and my prayers are with you and your family!
You were a fine and delightful couple. What a blessing and privilage to have known you. When ever we would see you we were greeted by your smiles and delightful demeanor.

Nancy and Gordy Thorell (Marthon, Florida)

Joyce Ramer

January 10, 2009

Dennis Bragelman from the 320 Store told us about Chuck
Patterson. He was a long standing member of the 320
Store and also his wife,Cynthia. Sorry to hear about his
passing. Joyce & Dick Ramer former owners - 320 Store.

Jim and Doris Craig

January 10, 2009

We are saddened to hear about the death of one of oldest and closest friends. There are so many years of good times we spent together with you both. Our prayers and sympathies go out to Cyndie and all the members of the Patterson family. May these few words bring you some comfort at this sad time.

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