Brownwood resident Donald “Don” Patterson, age 74, passed away on Friday, October 20, 2017, at home.
A Family and Friends Visitation Gathering will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 24, 2017, at Blaylock Funeral Home Chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of Blaylock Funeral Home.
Don was a graduate of Louisiana Tech College and received a Bachelor of Science degree with emphasis in Mathematics and General Engineering Technology. Afterwards, during his successful 44 year career, he completed numerous courses, obtaining advanced and specialized education.
Don’s primary vocation consisted of the design, engineering, construction, repair, inspection, and testing of numerous watercrafts (specifically recreational and commercial powerboats and sailboats, military vessels) built of wood, steel, aluminum, and fiberglass; his experience included watercraft from canoes to an aircraft carrier. During his long career, he has been employed as a draftsman, engineering technician, naval architecture technician, naval architect, director of naval architecture and engineering, marine surveyor/inspector, marine appraiser, and vice president of boat manufacturing. He achieved accreditation and certification by his peers and was considered an expert or professional in his vocation. He assisted numerous litigation cases (depositions and court trials) as “expert witness”.
Don’s secondary vocation was being company airplane pilot for two of his employers. He was VFR and IFR instrument-rated. He flew numerous business and personal trips across the southern states.
Don was self-employed for approximately 30 plus years, owning and operating his own business of marine surveying/inspections, appraisals, and consulting.
Don was a member of Coggin Ave. Baptist Church in Brownwood. He was formerly a 32 Degree Scottish Rite Mason.
Don is survived by his awesome and magnificent, best friend, squeeze, and wife, Janice “Jan” Patterson of 54 years; daughter, Michele Patterson; son, Steven Patterson and wife Mitzi; granddaughter, Samantha Strange; mother, Dorothy “Dot” L. Adams-Patterson-Gaskin ; other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Morris “Pat” G. Patterson; and sister, Mary Nell Patterson.
In lieu of flowers you may make a donation to a church of your choice. Online condolences for the family are welcome at www.blaylockfuneralhome.com.
