Patrick Patterson

Patrick O. Patterson, 75, dedicated family man, community sponsor and exceptional musician passed away June 13, 2023. He had a passion for continuous learning and immersing himself in the educational process. Patrick’s entire life has been dedicated to teaching his children and grandchildren about music and engaging them in his many interests.

As a longtime teacher of music, he taught at Big Bend Community College for 23 years. He enjoyed engaging his students in the passion of making and appreciating music, as well as helping to coordinate their success at the college. Patrick immersed himself in all things musical, and enjoyed the chaos of coordinating community events, participating in a variety of regional musical groups, and diving into his church music ministry.

Another of Patrick’s greatest joys was his family. He and his loving wife of 28 years enjoyed many family activities, singing in community choirs and traveling to various locations to perform. One of their highlights together was performing at Carnegie Hall, in New York City, with the Big Bend Community Choir. In addition to their travels, Pat and Lea spent many years establishing a youth mariachi band in Quincy, Washington, that performed at many community events in the region.

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents Rhoda and Vernon “Pat” Patterson and sister Thalia Patterson. He is survived by his loving wife Lea Patterson, sisters April Stone and Stephanie Bauer, nine children, 19 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, four nieces and many more friends, students and extended family members than can be counted.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 24, 2023, at 2 p.m., with fellowship and light refreshments to follow. Services will be located at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in 1012 C St. SW, Ephrata, Washington.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a charitable donation in Patrick’s name to the Big Bend Community College Foundation for the college’s Music Department. That can be done online at www.bigbend.edu/i-am/give-now or by mailing a check to BBCC Foundation, 762 Chanute Street NE, Moses Lake, WA 98837.

Arrangements are under the care of Nicoles Funeral Home, Ephrata, Washington. Please leave your thoughts and memories for the family at www.nicolesfuneralhome.com.