Dr. Donald Roger Patterson, 91, Joplin, MO, passed away Monday, May 20, 2019 at Wildwood Senior Living in Joplin, MO, with his loving family nearby. He was born in Joplin, MO, the son of Ralph and Helen (Hawes) Patterson.
He was a US Veteran, serving in the US Army Air Corps during WWII, where he was a recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Purple Heart. The then served in the US Air Force in Korea as a flight surgeon. He graduated Baylor Medical School and practiced medicine in Joplin for 60 years.
Dr. Patterson was a founding member of Community Clinic of Joplin, for which he received recognition from the Missouri Governor; and he was a long serving member of MSSU Board of Trustees. He had a passion for flying and was a private aircraft pilot. He also enjoyed saltwater fishing. He was a member of St. Peters Catholic Church in Joplin.
Dr. Patterson is survived by seven children, Keith Patterson, Dr. Mark Patterson, John Patterson, Anne Patterson-Doyle, Matthew Patterson, Andrew Patterson, and Dr. Michael Patterson and families. Dr. and Mrs. Barbara W. Patterson were blessed with eighteen grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren.
Dr. Patterson was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara (Williams) Patterson (Nov. 10, 2012); his parents; one son, Dr. David W. Patterson; one daughter, Genevieve Marie Patterson; and one brother, Kenneth Patterson.
Funeral Mass will be held 10 am, Friday, May 24, 2019 at St. Peters Catholic Church, Joplin. Father Chaz Dunn will officiate. Following services, a private family interment will be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Community Clinic of Joplin, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 66; Neosho, MO 64850.
Funeral Mass will be held 10 am, Friday, May 24, 2019 at St. Peters Catholic Church, Joplin. Father Chaz Dunn will officiate. Following services, a private family interment will be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Community Clinic of Joplin, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 66; Neosho, MO 64850.
One of the kindest sweetest people I ever met. God speed.
ReplyDeleteI feel a deep loss with Dr. Patterson's passing. He was the first person to swat me on the ass as he delivered me. Only now, as a 47 year old attorney, do I truly appreciate his accomplishments. His son, Matt Patterson, is a dear, dear friend of mine. I know Matt is very saddened by this news.
ReplyDeleteAll I can say is Thank you Dr. Patterson. I owe my life to you. As do so many others.
Rest in peace.
Jason David Smith, Esq.
Loved him; enjoyed his humor; still use home remedies he advised; I've missed him for years: God Speed Dr. Patterson!
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