Walter F. Patten Sr., 83, of Centralia passed away Tuesday, July 30, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family at his home. He was born on November 4, 1940, the son of John Perry and Flossie (Bonham) Patten in Robinson, Illinois. He married the love of his life, his sweetheart, Margaret Pritchard on September 8, 1965, in Mt. Vernon and she survives in Centralia.
Along with his devoted wife of 58 years, Margaret Patten, survivors that will hold dear memories of Walter include his children, Cheryl Parker, Ryan Parker, Laurie Martin (John Martin), Walter “Duke” Patten Jr. (Tina Patten), Jerry Patten (Bobbi Patten); 9 grandchildren, Michael Thomas, Joshua Patten, Jeremy Patten, Curtis Martin, John Martin, Justin Patten, Cassandra Scott, Trevor Patten, and Alana Patten; 26 great-grandchildren, Ethan, Jolee, Adalynn, Ryder, Emily, Jordan, Hayden, Graceigh, Chase, Creed, Isabelle, Khail, Tobias, David, Noah, Esther, Sarai, Baylee, Emma, Layton, Aleighanna, Carter, Aubriella, Paizlynn, McKenna, and Tayleigh; 1 great-great-grandchild, Emberlynn; siblings, Mary Hyre, and Robert Patten (Jean Patten); and nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Mr. Patten was preceded in death by his parents, John and Flossie Patten; and his siblings, Ernest Patten, Betty Wastlick, Elmer Patten, Doyle Patten, and Floyd Patten.
Walter was a respectable man with a strong work ethic. He was a skilled welder and carpenter, working in these trades for many years. He worked for Squib Tank Company in Salem as a welder, and for Shores Builders in Centralia as a carpenter. Walter was also a loyal employee of SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia. He started for the hospital first in the incinerator room and later moving to housekeeping for over 20 years, until his retirement. He will be remembered for his love of looking for a good treasure at yard sales, enjoying the outdoors while camping and fishing, and for his loving heart for his grandchildren who truly loved their “Grandpa” and “PaPa”.
Walter will be laid to rest at Little Grove Cemetery in Walnut Hill. Memorials may be made in Walter’s honor to the Family of Walter Patten and will be accepted for the family at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia. Online condolences and memories of Walter may be shared with his family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting the family of Walter Patten with arrangements.
