Virgil Richard Patterson
unknown - September 12, 2009
Virgil "Buddy" Richard Patterson, 68, passed away Sept. 12, 2009, at his home in Steamboat Springs surrounded by family. He was born Dec. 13, 1940, in Kimball, S.D., to Richard and Bertha Patterson. Virgil grew up working with his father in their farm, but he left home at a very early age. Until his mid-20s, he traveled and worked various jobs. While working as a chain hand motor man for Boyle Brothers Drilling in Craig, he met Irene Sena during a weekend in Steamboat. They married two years later, on July 3, 1967, and moved to Leadville, where two daughters, Jeannie and Glenda, were born.
Work led Virgil's family to Utah and Nevada, but they returned to Steamboat in 1978, and "Buddy" began working construction with Tyke Pierce. In 1989, Bob Dorr asked him, "Why don't you apply at Routt County maintenance?" After working at the Routt County Courthouse for 18 years, Virgil retired in 2007. Virgil was surrounded by women his entire life, and he loved them all dearly. But his greatest love was his granddaughter, Jade - his "little jungle bunny."
He enjoyed his boat, country music, and an ice-cold beer with good friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Richard Virgil and Bertha Patterson, of Vancouver, Wash. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Irene; daughters, Jeannie and Glenda; granddaughter, Jade Patterson; five sisters: Mavis (Darrold) Baker, of Amboy, Wash.; Sheila (Harold) Clinton, of Vancouver, Wash.; Shirley Baker, of Vancouver, Wash.; Eileen Elliott, of Melbourne, Fla.; and Connie Lutz, of Mesquite, Nev.; and nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews too many to list.
A memorial service was held Sept. 19 at Holy Name Catholic Church. May he rest in peace. Memorial donations may be sent to Northwest VNA/Hospice, 940 Central Park Drive, Suite 101, Steamboat Springs, CO 80477. Yampa Valley Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
