William Edgar Patterson

Bill is preceded in death by his father Robert J. Patterson, his mother Anne G. Patterson, his brother Robert, his sisters Millie Robertson and Mae Hagerman.

Bill is survived by his wife of 53 years, Bea, his older sister, Roberta Mathews, his daughter Julie Mackenzie, his son Robert Patterson and stepchildren Steve Salles and Sheila Barone. He is also survived by ten grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Bill served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as a Gunner’s Mate aboard the USS Alcoa Planter, a transport ship providing arms and supplies to the Pacific Theatre. He was very proud of time spent in the service of his country.

Many may remember Bill as the long-time square dance caller for the Circle M Club in Merced, the Rocking A’s in Atwater and the Bootjack Stompers in Mariposa. He also spent summers entertaining park guests teaching beginning square dancing in Yosemite National Park. He loved sharing his wonderful singing talent with as many as possible.

Growing up, Bill’s family had many farming endeavors including raising turkeys and cattle. He loved riding horses and attending an annual trail ride in Yosemite with his daughter Julie.

Bill worked for the Merced County Assessor office from 1968 - 1980 then appraised Real Estate for the remainder of his career. When Bill retired, he and Bea enjoyed traveling with the roaming Elks, and trips abroad with friends.

His hobbies included flying his airplane and playing golf. He loved riding motorcycles, camping, fishing, hunting and boating with his family and friends. He was very creative and enjoyed metal work, building many useful implements to use around the farm.

Above all, Bill was a wonderful father that spent so much time teaching his children the joys of life.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday December 19th at 11:00am at the Merced Elks Lodge, 1910 M Street, Merced, California where Bill was a 60-year member.