Raymond G. Patterson

Raymond G. Patterson, a World War II veteran, passed away on September 5, 2018, just 5 days before his 98th birthday. Ray was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Dorothy (Brown) Patterson and son-in-law, Tom Kessel.

After returning home from his deployment in Germany during WWII, he joined his father and grandfather’s printing business. He worked in the printing business until his retirement in 1985. Ray always enjoyed time spent at Coady Lake; whether teaching his young grandchildren the fine art of fishing or playing golf at Birchwood, where he proudly shot a hole-in-one. Ray loved his beagles and the time spent with his sons and friends hunting rabbits all over West Michigan. Besides eating anything chocolate, he also loved his graham cracker pie; a recipe passed down from his mother. Ray was a kind-hearted and good man who enjoyed the simple things in life; he always had a twinkle in his eye. Our family has truly been blessed to have had him in our lives for so many years.

Ray will be lovingly remembered by his children – Judy Kessel of Grand Rapids, Tom (Anne) Patterson of Holland, and Mike Patterson of Prescott, Arizona, his 8 grandchildren, Renee Bixler, Amy Fultz, Tina (Mike) Aldrich, Lisa (Brent) Noskey, Jeff (Tricia) Patterson, Brian (Diane) Patterson, Tyler (Claire) Patterson , Eric (Lori) Parks; 15 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11:30 am on September 10, 2018 at First Park Congregational Church, Thompson Chapel, 10 E Park Pl NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. The family will greet guests one hour before the service. A luncheon will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to: Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, 3000 Monroe Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505, or Disabled American Veterans, 4809 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508

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