Dec. 9, 1923 — Jan. 31, 2015

Joseph “Don” Patten, 91, years of Kentwood, Michigan, died on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2015, at his home in Elmcroft Assisted Living Center. He was born Dec. 9, 1923, in Cummington Massachusetts, Hampshire County, to Bernard B. Patten and Jeanette (Redding) Patten.

After high school Don enlisted in the Navy during World War II. He served as an aircraft engine mechanic. While stationed in Jacksonville Florida he met his future wife who was a switchboard operator at the Navy base. Don married Frances in a private ceremony before the Justice of the Peace in Folkston, Georgia on Jan. 26, 1946. On March 13, 1946, Don and Frances gathered with their families for a second traditional wedding in the Church. Don was Honorably Discharged from the Navy in April 1946. In July 1947 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserves and was Honorably Discharged July 1952.

Don worked as a machinist and Inspector in a machine shop until he retired. After retirement Don and his wife Frances owned and managed the D&F Ceramic Studio in Niles, Michigan where many residents of Niles went for weekly classes to learn painting and glazing techniques. Don also worked at the South Bend Tribune until age 85.

Don and Frances were youth group counselors at the United Methodist Church in Niles. Don was also an adult leader in Boy Scouts. Don is survived by his son Kenneth B. (wife Darlene) Patten of Kentwood, Michigan, granddaughter, Maria R. Meyer of Stevens Point, Wisconsin, grandsons, Michael T. Patten of Grand Rapids and Nicolas A. Patten of Wyoming, Michigan, great grandchildren Anika E. Herheim, Carter K. Herheim, Jorie Meyer, and Hallie Meyer.

Don was preceded in death by his wife Frances Patten, his brothers Vernon and Carl Patten and his sisters Jeanne, Dorothy, and Norma. A memorial Service for Joseph “Don” Patten will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 9, 2015, at Elmcroft with Reverend James Dykstra officiating. Don will receive military honors. Online condolences may be left at www.ofieldfuneralhome.com.