Robert Clifford Patterson

Robert Clifford Patterson II
November 8, 1948 - June 6, 2015
Independence - Robert "Bob" Clifford Patterson, 66, loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather passed away suddenly at home in Independence on June 6, 2015. Bob is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 46 years, Geraldine (Jeri) Lynn, son Robert Clifford Patterson III (wife Shannon), daughter Shannon Lee Ricketts (husband Dave), two grandchildren Jessica Lynn Marie and Joshua Robert, and sister Patricia Reyes.
Bob was born to Robert Clifford Patterson Sr. who was known around town as "Pat" and his mother Ann Rosella (Hildebrand) on November 8, 1948. He spent his childhood in Independence and went to Independence Elementary School, Henry Hill Junior High and graduated from Central High School in 1966. Bob married the love of his life in 1968 and they raised their two children in a loving household where family was always first.
Bob was always a dedicated and very hard worker at everything he decided to do. He worked at Marion County Public Works Road Maintenance Department as a community service crew leader until 2013 when he retired. He was well respected by his crew and work peers. In his spare time, he worked on his family's property recycling scrap metal. He was also a certified welder.
Bob had a soft spot in his heart for most animals, especially his dogs. He regularly was known to buy food for the many cats, raccoons and yes, nutria that shared their six acres. As long as they were not bothering him, they were welcome to stay.
Bob enjoyed most all things to do with the outdoors and enjoyed the Oregon coast. If the weather permitted, you would not find him inside very often. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and gun enthusiast who reloaded his own ammunition. He held a CHL and was not often found without his trusty side arm. He was proud to be a lifetime member of the NHRA, the North American Hunting Club and a Pioneer License holder from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
When Bob wasn't working or enjoying the outdoors, he loved to listen to a very diverse selection of music by Johnny Cash, Credence Clearwater Revival, The Beach Boys and, in general, just good ol' classic country. One of the diverse music choices he had was a love for Irish Bagpipes! He kept up on the latest trends with guns and ammo by being an avid reader. He also loved to read books by authors such as Louie Lamoure, Ralph Compton and William W. Johnstone. He and his son-in-law, Dave would trade books back and forth.
Bob could be found watching a variety of shows such as the classic Ten Commandments with Charlton Heston and Yul Brynner. The family had a tradition of watching this together every Easter while Jeri was cooking dinner. He also enjoyed horror films, such as Silence of the Lambs, Hannibal (which Jeri REALLY loved), any type of cheesy Zombie movie, and of course, the classic love story of - SpongeBob! His favorite actors were Clint Eastwood and the great John Wayne. He loved their strong characters and gentlemanly attitudes.
Bob was a dedicated patriot and loved our great country. He had very strong love for our troops and regularly exercised his right to freedom of speech... This was respected by many and generally feared by the local City Council! He was a fair man that wasn't afraid to speak up for what he felt was right. He recently completed installing a lighted flagpole in the front yard and proudly began flying "old glory". The family will continue with this tradition and honor it as he did.
In honor of Bob, we will be having a celebration of life Saturday, July 11, 1:30 pm - 5 pm at the Independence Elementary School cafeteria, 150 S 4th St, Independence, OR 97351. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you might consider spending some extra time with your own family. Plan a barbeque, go for a drive or take a nice walk in the trees. Family was everything to Bob and this would be the perfect way to honor him.
Farnstrom Mortuary is caring for the family. Memories and condolences can be left at FarnstromMortuary.com.