Lewis Edward Patton Obituary (2023)

Dad was born in Jerome, Idaho in 1929. He moved around some as a child, eventually his family settled in Toppenish. He was a big, good looking young man who played varsity football and basketball. He married his high school sweetheart, Gloria Allen, in 1947. They enjoyed 75 years, 8 months of marriage. Dad passed on Sept. 23, 2023. Dad started college at Central, but a football injury cut his time short. He entered the U.S. Army and served during the Korean War. Dad was a drill instructor, which served him well later as a coach, teacher and superintendent. Dad went on to enlist in the Washington National Guard where he served until 1970, retiring with the rank of Captain. He served as a company commander in artillery and anti-aircraft weaponry. While Dad was in the National Guard, he returned to Central to earn his teaching credentials. He was a football coach, shaping and protecting young men. His career began at Washington Junior High in Yakima, continuing his education and credentials through WSU, then as vice principal at Wapato High School (during the Louie, Louie days!), earned his way to serve as Assistant Superintendent in Wapato. He was instrumental in shaping and bringing assistance and educational opportunities while working with the Yakama Nation, this program becoming a national standard to follow. He later took the job of Superintendent in Wilbur, WA. His final position was Superintendent in Pe Ell, WA. Dad enjoyed many years hunting with his best friends. He finally said, "Why ruin a good hunting season by killing something" Dad loved the outdoors, fishing, hunting, the beauty of nature, horseback riding through the mountains. He enjoyed many great times salmon fishing and having memorable visits with his best friend Leroy 'Mac' McKimmy both in Alaska and Hawaii. Dad and Mom loved dancing and spent many years as Wagon Wheelers square dancing. Mom made them matching clothes. They sure looked good cutting a rug, no matter what sort of dance it was! They danced right up to their 75th anniversary party! Dad had beautiful penmanship and wrote poetry. He was a romantic at heart. When Dad retired, he was roasted. He had a great sense of humor and loved that evening of teasing. Dad was happy in retirement in Doty. He bought 13 acres, raised several head of cattle, had an enormous garden, built a tree house (with electricity and a tv) for his grandkids to enjoy. He gave tractor rides, enjoyed shooting and helped Mom with household chores as she still had a few years before retirement. His asthma caused them to become snowbirds and they owned in Sun City, AZ. for many years, famously joining Super Bowl parties with celebrating his birthday. Dad took up golf after retirement and enjoyed many years on various courses, including get-togethers in Glenoma, WA. with Eastern WA. friends, in Lacey and Sun City, AZ. Dad lost Mom, Gloria Patton, in June of 2023. He is survived by daughters Cathy (Rick Fries) and Janet (Jeff Swanson), son-in-law Tad Orme, and, in chronological order, grandchildren: Carrie, Melanie, Terry, Jr., Amy, Megan, Sarah, Lindsay and Lauren. Great Grandchildren: Mason, Madeline, Isabelle, Audrey, Mailee, Luca, Romeo, Sam, Mateo, Solange and a boy bun in the oven. He was predeceased, sadly, by his youngest daughter, Leslie Orme and first born and only son, Terry. We're all going to miss you, Dad. There will be a celebration of life for Mom and Dad at a later date. Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.