Nathan Patterson Obituary

Nathan Patterson
June 13, 1920 - February 21, 2013
Resident of San Jose
Nate was born in Guthrie, OK, to parents Nathan Hugh and Edna Belle Patterson. At age two, he moved to Woodward, OK where he was educated in local schools. He was a Boy Scout and earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Nate graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1943 with a BS in engineering. He went on to serve for fifteen years in the United States Navy where he fought in World War II, China Service, and the Korean War. He also taught at the University of Oklahoma and the Korean Naval Academy. He worked as an aerospace engineer for several defense contractors and retired from LMSC in 1988. He later served in the Army and eventually retired as a Captain. During his service, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and Pacific Service Medal among other awards. He raised his family in San Diego and San Jose where he was active in his church life and the Cursillo Movement. His love for his wife and family, his respect for animals and nature, and his patriotism will forever inspire those who knew him.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Marion Elaine, and their four children: Nathan Hugh Patterson (Pamela), Nancy Valerie Ward (Jay), Michael Anthony Patterson (April), and Stephanie Jean Palomo (John). He also leaves behind seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Family and friends are invited to attend his memorial service on Saturday, March 9, 2013 at 11:00 am at St. James Anglican Church, 1565 Lincoln Avenue, San Jose.