Don’s life began on July 28, 1938, the son of Ivan and Mildred (Stark) Patterson in El Dorado, Kansas. He graduated from El Dorado High School Class of 1956. Don served his country in the U.S. Navy retiring after 24 years of service. After retirement, Don taught at multiple Navy schools before moving back to El Dorado where he then worked at Orscheln’s as a sales person and handyman.
He was a member of the First Christian Church. He served as an elder and a deacon and was on the church board. He would always show up with his Bible and had a devotion ready if called upon. Don was part of the Ramps and Rails ministry – installing them wherever needed. He enjoyed being a member of the Amateur Radio Club and always had a radio in his home and all of his vehicles. After retirement he would convert school buses into motor homes. He enjoyed eating out, camping at the lake, watching sunrises and sunsets.
His loving family includes his brother, Bob (Sue) Patterson of Ponca City, Oklahoma; sister, Barbara Baldwin of El Dorado; uncle and aunt, Chris and Wanda Stark of Bloomington, Indiana; 5 nieces and nephews; 14 great nieces and nephews; 7 great-great nieces and nephews.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother-in-law, Billie Baldwin and a great nephew. Don passed away, Friday, September 7, 2018, having reached the age of 80 years old.
His family will gather with friends on Thursday, September 13, from 5-7p.m. at Kirby-Morris Funeral Home. His funeral will be held Friday, September 14, at 10:00 a.m. at the First Christian Church, with Pastor Stan Seymour officiating. He will be laid to rest with military honors at Sunset Lawns Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in his name may be directed to First Christian Church, 300 W. Central, El Dorado, Kansas 67042. Please sign his online guest book and leave a memory of Don at www.kirbymorris.com
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