Don Urban Patteson

Don Urban Patteson was born in Ellensburg, WA on August 4, 1947; and died in Yakima, WA on October 27, 2022, at the age of 75. He was raised and attended school in Ellensburg ultimately graduating with a bachelor’s degree from Central Washington State College, now known as Central Washington University. He was also a veteran having served in the Washington State National Guard. He worked for several different companies in the Yakima valley and eventually owned his own business working as a glazier and retiring when he was 62.

Don enjoyed playing fast pitch softball and played for several different teams until he retired at 43. He also enjoyed golfing and was a member at Suntides Golf Course for several years, but the thing he loved the most was fishing – especially fly fishing; tying flies and building fly rods. He did all of those very well.

Those of you that knew Don knew that he cared deeply for his friends and family. In addition, Don never met a dog that he didn’t like, and the feeling was mutual. Dogs adored Don and were instantly drawn to him. When he was interacting with a dog, you could see the real person inside and we will miss him.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur and Mary Patteson; his brother-in-law Don Belcher, and his niece Linda Belcher; and is survived by those of us that cared for and loved him including his wife of 36 years Joyce Patteson; daughter Kem Patteson, her husband Jeff Beauchamp, and beloved granddaughter Danae; sister Clara Belcher, niece Sherri Wiley, and special nephew Don Belcher; along with several other nieces, nephews, distant relatives, and friends – especially John Eakin and Howard Anderson. He is also survived by Murphy – his current canine companion.

“No one is actually dead until the ripples they cause in the world die away.” – Terry Pratchett.

In accordance with Don’s wishes, there will be no service. Instead, go play a round of golf with friends or if you fish, throw out a line. Create ripples in Don’s memory.