Donald "Don" Patterson

Donald "Don" Patterson, 68, of Island Lake, IL passed away peacefully on December 30, 2024. Born on November 24, 1956, in Oswego, NY to William Charles and Alice Virginia Patterson, Don lived his early years in his beloved hometown before joining the United States Marine Corps, where he would serve his country with honor for 20 years.

Don's military service was a central part of his life. After enlisting in the Marines, he went on to have a distinguished career, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant before retiring in 1996. He served with distinction during Operation Desert Storm. Throughout his time in the military, Don’s dedication to duty and his country was unwavering, and he was proud to be a Marine.

Don was an avid sports fan, and his enthusiasm for his favorite teams was unmatched. Whether it was cheering on the Buffalo Bills, rooting for the New York Yankees, or following Syracuse Orange sports, Don always enjoyed watching his beloved teams.

Above all, Don found peace and joy in the great outdoors, with the Chain O’ Lakes area being his favorite place to camp. There, surrounded by nature, Don was in his element and simply enjoyed the quiet beauty of the area.

Although Don has passed, he will live in our hearts forever.

Don is survived by his beloved wife Janice, his sons, Joshua and Justin; his siblings, William Patterson, Michael Phinney, Velvet Patterson, and Teresa Patterson; and by many loving nieces, nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sons, William Charles and Richard Henry; his brother, Joseph Phinney; his nephew, William “Floyd” Patterson; and his niece, Julie Lynn Arvin.

A Celebration of Don’s life will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 1 PM at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Rte. 176), Crystal Lake, IL 60014. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Windridge Memorial Park, 7014 S. Rawson Bridge Rd., Cary, IL.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to VFW Post 5885, 14 Bronson St, Oswego, NY 13126 of which Don was a life member.