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Richard Patton
1944 - 2025
Richard Patton Obituary
September 1, 1944 - July 27, 2025
Born in Wahoo, Nebraska, the youngest child of school teachers Ellen and William Patton, Rich lived a life of intention, commitment, and fun.
An honor graduate of both the University of Nebraska Lincoln and the Nebraska College of Medicine, he accepted a pathology residency at the University of Washington School of Medicine and earned the title of chief resident. While at UNL, he also mastered the art of a ten-minute nap and used that to great advantage throughout his life.
His entire career was spent at his dream job, practicing both clinical and surgical pathology at Northwest Hospital. He was a long-time volunteer regional commissioner for the ASCPA, an organization that accredits laboratories. In addition, he founded Magnolia Medical Technologies, which produces devices that eliminate false positives in blood cultures.
Rich challenged himself by climbing Mt Rainier twice, running marathons, and skiing backcountry. He kept fit by swimming for an hour every day. History books filled his library shelves.
Rich met Jeannie Fauss in Miami on the eve of the 1964 Orange Bowl, which was the start of a 62-year relationship.
Together, Rich and Jean travelled the world independently. Navigating Budapest in deep twilight pre-GPS with only a map in the Hungarian language was a typical adventure.
Together, Rich and Jean mastered the tango at milangas both in Seattle and in Argentina.
Together, Rich and Jean learned to sail. The SV True Love, a J42, provided years of pleasure and occasional adventure in the Salish Sea.
Together, Rich and Jean attended SIFF, Berlinale, Seattle Symphony, PNW Ballet, and the Seattle Rep.
Together, Rich and Jean lived lovingly in a home they restored in Magnolia. And of course, Rich loved driving his 1976 911 targa, always wearing a fedora.
Together, Rich and Jean raised John Patton, husband of Jenny Zenner, and Kathryn Beal, wife of Bruce Beal. All four are outstanding human beings.
Brady, Bowden, Annette, Fauss, and Harris are their absolutely perfect grandchildren.
Memorial Service to be held Sunday, August 31st. Please contact the family for details.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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