Harold 'Pat' Wilson

Harold Dean Patrick "Pat' Wilson peacefully passed away on Friday, July 21, 2023. He was 86 years old. He is survived by his bride of 58 years, Joanne; his nephew Michael Mueller, niece Louise Mueller, of Fresno; two grandnieces and their husbands (Zach and Laura Umfress, of Fresno; and Austin and Melissa Kemp, of Visalia) along with two beautiful great-grandnieces.

Pat was born on January 24, 1937 in Miami, Oklahoma. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents; father Ellis B. Wilson and mother Alta Turner Wilson Wheeler. Pat's family left the Midwest around 1950 for work opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. Pat graduated from Bremerton High School in 1955 and later attended the University of Washington for one year before receiving his draft notice. Pat became a

soldier in the United States Army. Pat completed Airborne training and became a proud member of the 105" Airborne Division. He also qualified as expert in several weapons, including the recoilless jeep-

mounted rifle. Pat toured the world at several bases and was promoted to PFC rank serving at the Pentagon as an attache to Col. Richter. Pat also served bravely in Southeast Asia, becoming the only survivor of a group of 60 soldiers after an enemy ambush. After recovery in Saigon and Washington, DC, Pat was honorably discharged.

A military friend from Visalia convinced Pat to move to this community to begin the next chapters of his life. He specialized in business finance and accounting. Soon, he met and married the love of his life, Joanne in 1965. Pat opened his own tax preparation service and soon had as many clients as he could handle. Pat we recognized as an expert at tax laws and regulations. He developed special close relations with law enforcement and correctional officers. Pat loved his work and many of his clients became dear personal friends.

Pat loved reading, especially books by Michael Connelly. He enjoyed traveling to Hawaii (he and Joanne became friends with Don Ho!) and spending time with his loving wife and family. Pat was known for his devilish sense of humor and his deep love of his wife, friends, and family members. He will be greatly missed.