Patterson Jr., Lewis D.

Lewis D. Patterson Jr. died Oct. 4, 2013, at Veterans Hospital in Minneapolis. Graveside services, with a military gun salute and flag presentation, took place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 1:30 p.m.

Survivors include his wife, Ruby; two brothers, James Backstrom of Des Moines and Robert Backstrom of Minneapolis; one sister, Meinard Wright of Cedar Rapids; two sons, Dr. Mark Patterson of Ocala, Fla., and Craig Patterson of Atlanta, Ga.; a stepson, Kevin Byers of Minneapolis; and two stepdaughters, Cherie Byers and Gladys Johnson, also of Minneapolis. Other survivors include five grandchildren and a host of nephews, nieces and other relatives.

Lewis was preceded in death by his parents and a brother.

Lewis D. Patterson was born Feb. 11, 1933, in Iowa City, Iowa, the son of Lewis D. Sr. and Frances Nance Patterson. He grew up in Cedar Rapids, where he attended McKinley High School. He joined the U.S. Army during the Korean War, in February 1953, was promoted to sergeant in December 1954 and was honorably discharged in June 1955, having served in the 2nd Battalion. Upon returning to Cedar Rapids, Lewis worked at the U.S. Post Office and also at Goss Co., where he attained Journeyman's status. He relocated to Minneapolis and there worked in the College of Engineering at the University of Minnesota as a mechanical engineer. Lewis retired from the university after 20 years of service.

Lewis was deeply interested in the issues and political affairs of the world, especially those of the United States. He was nearly always eager and ready for a discussion on these matters, as well as other current events. Lewis was also an avid proponent of higher education.

He will most assuredly be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

Published Oct. 20, 2013 in The Gazette