Wayne E. Patterson

Wayne E Patterson passed away on April 22, 2025 in Tavares, Florida at the age of 99+, after short period of medical complications. Wayne was born on November 27, 1925 in a log cabin on the Clam River south of Marion, Michigan. Wayne was born the son of Thomas and Edna, (Hulliberger), Patterson. Wayne spent a few years when young in the Flint area, but most of his life was spent on family farms in the Clam and Muskegon River area. Wayne had four brothers and three sisters. While still in High school, at the age of 17, Wayne enlisted as a signalman into the navy to fight in World War II. During his term of active duty, Wayne crossed the international date line several times in fulfilling his service to our country. After his honorable discharge from armed services Wayne met the love of his life, Audrey White, in Chelsea Michigan. They were married on June 19,1948; just shy of 77 years. Together they raised three boys, Alan, Bruce, and Jeffrey. Due to Wayne's passion for science, he motivated numerous students to careers in the science field. In addition, two of his sons followed in his footsteps in science education careers. Wayne graduated from Alma College with a bachelor's degree and a teaching certificate in science education. Wayne taught school in Reading, Michigan for one year and then in 1953 began teaching in Clare Michigan, where he retired with over 30 years of teaching biology, physiology, and conservation. Wayne was a very pleasant, humble, and kindhearted man that always had a smile on his face, and a great sense of humor. He was an easy- going man of grace. He was a naturalist reference for many, and loved and revered by numerous folks. Wayne had a strong interest in the outdoors and wildlife activities. Wayne always liked to keep busy participating in activities of wildlife wood carving, taxidermy, raising fish, fishing, hunting, camping, bowling and golf. He played in league sports of bowling and golf for over 25 years. He never did get a 300 in bowling but in golf he did get a Hole-In-One. In his golf league he was known as steady Eddie, which means he would hit his tee shot 150 yards straight down the fairway, 2nd shot straight down the fairway to the putting green then two putts. Wayne is survived by his wife, Audrey, of Leesburg, Florida, Two sons, Jeff Patterson, Clare, MI and Bruce (Linda) Patterson of Clare, MI and Labelle FL. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Tori, (Kaci,) Patterson, Rochester, IN, Tyran, (Marina), Conifer, CO, Danica, (Bryce) Davis, Marshfield MO, and Dylan Patterson, Clare, Michigan, 10 great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. Wayne is also survived by one brother, David (Debbie) Patterson of Holt, MI, and one sister Donna Long of Cadillac, MI Wayne was preceded in death by his son Alan (Cheryl) Patterson and three brothers and two sisters: Bob, Carl, and Cal, Mary, and Shirley. In following Wayne's wishes, he was cremated and memorials are being planned in both Florida and Michigan. The Florida memorial will be held around his 100th birthday at Mid Florida Lakes, Leesburg, FL. The Michigan memorial service will be held at the Clare VFW Post 5738 on Friday, June 27, 2025 at 2 P.M. with Military Honors being presented.

Wayne E. Patterson

November 27, 1925 - April 22, 2025