By Staff
Theodore James Patterson, 95, died peacefully May 21, 2009, after an extended illness.
He will be buried at Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles after a private family service.
He was born on March 4, 1914, in Niles, to James and Josephine Patterson.
He was the retired co-owner, with his wife Harriett, of the original Paris Candy Store at 220 E. Main, Niles. His father opened the store in 1910, and Ted and Harriett ran the business for 50 years, closing in 1985.
He was preceded in death by his wife of over 50 years, Harriett; his sister, Angela (Bob) Richards of Dayton, Ohio; and a grandson, Timothy Patterson of Remus.
Survivors include three daughters, Mary Jo (Bob) Meyer, Margaret (John) Cinninger, and Martha (Bill) Kennedy, all of Niles; three sons, James (Sarah) Patterson of Niles, Ted (Cherie) Patterson of Canadian Lakes, and Thomas Patterson of Grand Rapids; 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
He was an Army veteran of World War II, a 32nd degree Mason, and a former Exalted Ruler and lifetime member of the Elks Temple in Niles.
Memorials may be sent to charities of the donor's choice.
Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan, is handling arrangements for the family.