Clyde “Don” Patton, age 90, of Bismarck, ND passed away on January 26, 2024 at Sanford Health Center.  Don was born on March 16, 1933 in Denver, CO.

Don is survived by his current wife, Betty (Job) and surviving stepchildren Deb Schafer, Janette Ingebretson, Bobbie Indergaard (Tim), nine grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by his second wife, Virgina (Lemke) (d. 1996).

Don had married Juanita (Smith) and later divorced.  Children born were Susan Schmidt (Jim) and Elizabeth “Liz” Jaramillo (Jam).  Born within these families there were three grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.

Don has two surviving brothers.  Later in life he was able to locate two half-sisters where he met one prior to her passing.  He was preceded in death by a brother, sister, daughter, stepson, step-grandson, two half-sisters and parents.

Don had an accomplished career as a District Manager with Lorillard Tobacco Company for 30 years when he retired in 1991.  During his tenure as a tobacco representative for the company, he was known as very well-traveled, a trusted and meticulous hard worker, stylish dresser (suit, tie, and always polished shoes), and a very kind man.  During his travels and throughout his years, he always kept a well-maintained and clean vehicle!  If you arrived at his home to visit, he may mention that your vehicle was dirty and needed a wash.  He would ask if you were going to leave the dirt on the driveway.  He did this with a twinkle in his eye, a boisterous giggle and a slight smile.  Leaving you wondering if you should get back in the car and find the nearest carwash.

In 1997, he and Betty moved to Rapid City, SD and later moved out to Johnson Siding where they made that their home for over 20 years.  They had many visitors that loved to stay, enjoy the beautiful surroundings and their company.  The story was that you had to call and make reservations at the Patton Inn and reserve your room as the Inn may be full.  Don always loved to see visitors come, have a glass of wine, and join in conversation and storytelling.

The grandchildren were always excited to spend time there during the summer and hang out in the hills.  He would keep them entertained by taking them and inner tubes up to the top of the creek and drop them off so that they could tube down to the bridge that was located just below the house.  Don would take a chair down at the bridge just to sit and listen to the water running down the creek and watch the trout swimming.  The bridge was his pride and joy which he took all means to ensure it was preserved.  On lookers would stop and ask about the bridge which gave him the opportunity to strike up conversation and talk about the bridge.

If you had visited Don in SD, you surely would have made a trip to the Johnson Siding Station #1 Fire Department.  He received his 10-year service pin honoring his unwavering service, dedication, and hard work.

Don would share the story of him being in ROTC while attending high school and serving as a medic in the National Guard for a period of time.

Don had many loves.  No day went by that Betty didn’t hear “I love you”.  He loved to look out and see the sunrises each day.  He loved to join the grandbabies on the floor crawling around and or trying to teach them to crawl.  He loved his Snicker Doodle and Oatmeal Raisin cookies thus getting his name the “Cookie Monster”.  He would never turn down sweets, it was always part of the meal menu.

Don’s infectious laugh, kindness, whit, generosity, storytelling will be missed by many.  He will always hold a special place in our hearts.  He was a treasured gift from God and a blessing to us all.

Word of Thanks!!

I am truly grateful for the outpour of the love and support that I have received following the loss of Don.  Your kind words, thoughtful gestures and presence have been a source of comfort during this difficult time.  Thank you for being such an important part of both Don’s and my life.    With all my love, Betty.

 

Don’s Visitation will be Saturday, February 3, 2024 from 9:00AM-10:00AM followed by a Funeral Service at 10:00AM all at Evans Funeral Home, Carrington.

His Burial will be at the Carrington Cemetery.