Gwendol Patterson

Gwendol Patterson, son of late Glen Crawford Patterson and Bertha Williams Patterson, was born May 15th, 1931, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He graduated from Crispus Attucks High School in Indianapolis, in 1949. He attended Butler University where he studied art. Thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. During his military career, he was stationed in Alaska with his most significant duty assignment being at Kessler Air Force Base in Mississippi. He was honorably discharged from duty from McChord Air Force Base in Washington State.

Gwendol was employed by the United States Postal Service as an esteemed mail carrier over 30 years. There he was affectionately known as “Pat” by co-workers who became lifelong friends. He was recently honored as a 60-year member of the National Association of Letter Carriers.

Gwendol became a father for the first time, on July 3rd, 1954, to daughter Karen Patterson (Howard), then to Linda Patterson and Lisa Patterson (Keels). In 1970, he was introduced by his late sister, Arthella Patterson Simpson to the elegant and tenderhearted Ivalue Robinson. He was quickly captivated and proposed after a brief courtship. They were married in 1971. Gwendol became a father for the fourth time, to a son Darrick Christopher Patterson.

Gwendol lived most of his life in Indianapolis, creating cherished memories with family and friends. In 2006 he and wife Ivalue, moved to Villa Rica, Georgia to be closer to Darrick and Daughter-In-Law, Quintessence Abdullah Patterson and his cherished grandchildren, Najaah Malonne Patterson, Sanaa Paisley Patterson and Layth Kristopher Patterson. His 2nd nickname was now “Grandad”. As Grandad, he enjoyed teaching his grandchildren to play checkers, attended dance recitals and basketball games. He had annual lunch dates at their elementary school for Grandparents Day and Veterans Day.

Gwendol was known for his devotion to his family. He was a mentor to many. The strong silent type, he was also known for his kindness and wisdom. Keeping family first was his priority. Gwendol was the true definition of protector and provider. He was undeniably a pillar of the family. Gwendol was an avid jogger and enjoyed exercise. He was an artist and enjoyed painting and sketching. Gwendol was also affectionately known as “Mr. Fix It”, as he was a very skilled handyman.

Gwendol departed this earthly life at the age of ninety-two years, six months and twenty-five days, surrounded by his family at home. He died with dignity.

He is preceded in death by his Father: Glen Crawford Patterson; Mother: Bertha Williams Patterson;

Sisters: Mrs. Edmonia Smithen, Mrs. Muriel Bryant, Mrs. Catherine Smith, Mrs. Arthella P. Simpson, Mrs. Nadine Loyd and Mrs. Stella Tinsley; Brothers: Mr. Joseph Patterson and Mr. Arvine Patterson; Special Siblings: Oscar Johnson, Deloris Jackson and Edmonia Parham.

Continuing on to celebrate his life are his wife of 52 years, Ivalue R. Patterson; Daughters: Karen (Charles), Linda, Lisa (Steven); Son: Darrick (Quintessence); Grandchildren: Najaah, Sanaa and Layth, Special sibling: Johann Porter, Sister-In-Law: Lucia Wellington and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

A gathering of family and friends for Gwendol will be held Tuesday, December 19, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Crown Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery, 700 W. 38th St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46208, followed by a memorial service at 12:00 PM.