He was born in Springfield, March 30, 1929 the son of W.Earl and Helen (Newby) Patterson. He married Norma Jean Babbs and they celebrated 44 years of marriage before she preceded him in death in 1994. Bob was also preceded in death by a daughter, Susan Dee Patterson, his son-in-law, Sean Power, a step-daughter, Jennifer McDonald and his parents.
Although he did not talk much about his military service, Bob enlisted in 1948 with the United States Naval Reserves. He would serve two 4 year terms, 1 of which he was “frozen” during the Korean War. He served as a 3rd class radar man, tracking courses and targets for the Navigation officers. He was honorably discharged in 1957.
Bob was a skilled craftsman of the home building and construction profession. During his 25 year career with McDermand Homes and Shop, he was proud to have built over 900 homes in Illinois. He was the “oldest” Formica fabricator in Central Illinois. After his time with McDermand Homes and Shop, Bob continued to share in his expertise and mentoring other contractors, serving the Dawson’s Manufacturing and Supply. He specialized in manufacturing of trusses, wall panels, doors and steel beams. He retired for a second time after 20 years of service. A notable mention was his service as an executive officer to the Springfield Home Builders Association 1970-1983.
Not wanting to sit idle, Bob would devote the next 14 years to various auto dealers as a driver for them. He enjoyed playing golf. He was a member of Laurel United Methodist Church, the ELKS 138 and the masonic lodge.
Bob later married Barbara Ellen Godfrey and she survives. Also surviving are his children: Robert E. “Rob” (wife Elizabeth) Patterson, of Elgin, IL, Donald E. (wife Gail) Patterson of McCalla, AL, Thomas L (wife Kimberly) Patterson of Springfield, IL and Debra Patterson Power of O’Fallon, MO. He has 4 grandchildren: Joanna Patterson, D.J. (wife Sarah) Patterson, Nick Patterson, and Ryan Power, a great grandchild, Amani King, a step-daughter, Krista (husband Michael) Rybak of Webster Grove, MO and several step grandchildren.
The Patterson family will greet family and friends at Bisch and Son Funeral Home 505 E. Allen St. Springfield, IL on Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 9:00 am until the time of a funeral service at 10:00 am. Rev. Dr. Kent Lolling will officiate. Burial will be private in the Grove City Methodist Church Cemetery, in Mt. Auburn, Twp. Illinois.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch and Son Funeral Home. 217-544-5424
