William "Pat" Patterson
January 02, 1936 - January 15, 2017
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Obituary For William "Pat" Patterson
Pat Patterson, 81, passed away on Sunday, January 15. He was born and raised in Salina, Kansas by his parents John Dewey and Cecile Patterson. They preceded him in death as did his brother, Donald Patterson.
He was a graduate of Kansas State University where he began his career in radio. He spent the next 60 years as a radio personality, entertaining people with his quick wit and sharp humor. He is most well-known for his time spent as the morning radio star personality on WKIX 850 AM in the 1970's but he also spent quality time locally at WQDR and WDNC as well as various stations in the northeast and midwest.
He recorded 3 comedy albums and helped produce numerous local radio programs. He received many awards and recognition throughout his career including Billboard Magazine awards, induction to the NC Broadcasters Hall of Fame, Order of the Long Leaf Pine and Tarheel of the Week.
He was proud of his many years of involvement with the Duke Children's Classic Golf Tournament beginning at its inception in 1972.
He led an active lifestyle, playing baseball and basketball in his earlier years then in his later years, tennis and golf. For many years he and his wife Becky enjoyed beach time at their condo at Pine Knoll Shores.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 34 years, Becky, as well as son, John (Amy) Patterson, daughter Kristi (Dana) Troutt, stepson Hunter Fleshood, stepdaughter Shannon Myers and seven grandchildren; Jordan and Caroline Patterson, Spencer and Justin Troutt, Emmy and Libby Fleshood and Halee Myers. Also left behind is longtime sidekick Johnny Dollar and a broken down Fundermotz Airline jet currently residing in the weeds behind Uncle Zeb’s General Store in Lizard Lick.
Two Flags over Fuquay shall be flying their flags at half-mast in his honor.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Duke Children's Hospital at Dukechildrens.org.
Services
Cemetery
Visitation
10:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Funeral Service
11:30 AM
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Condolences
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September 01, 2020
Browing up in Raleigh during the '70s and 80's meant listening to "The Big 85" and Pat Patterson. He was one of my earliest radio heroes, and listening to Pat and Johnny Dollar is what infected me with the radio bug. Years later, it was a real privilege for me to not only meet Pat, but to produce his shows once again on WKIX and WDOX. In the hearts of his fans, myself included, Pat's on-air light will forever burn brightly.
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September 01, 2020
Lit a candle in memory of William "Pat" Patterson
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September 01, 2020
For those who are interested here is the link to the News & Observer's tribute article that ran in today's print edition and online. http://www.newsobserver.com/entertainment/music-news-reviews/on-the-beat-blog/article126999549.html
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September 01, 2020
I worked with Pat at WKIX. Great talent and person. He will be missed. RIP Pat. May two flags over Fuquay fly forever.
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September 01, 2020
Some have been looking for a more lengthy tribute to Pat. Here is one posted on the WKIX AM/FM, Raleigh, NC Alumni and Fans Facebook Page by his good friend and colleague Joe Goodpasture January 16 at 3:47pm Raleigh Radio Legend Pat Patterson Dies at Age 81 Pat Patterson, who entertained generations of Triangle radio listeners with a unique blend of folksy but sophisticated humor and rock and roll music, has died at the age of 81. Patterson passed away January 15 in Raleigh, NC after a long period of declining health. Despite his age and health problems, he continued to entertain listeners with an oldies weekend show until very recently. The show was heard on his favorite of the many radio stations he was part of, WKIX- 850. It was a fitting final format and station for his 60-year career in radio. A native of Salina, Kansas, Patterson worked for several stations following graduation from Kansas State University, but it was in Raleigh that he found his niche. He came to WKIX as the morning personality in 1969 and soon became the most listened to disc jockey in eastern North Carolina. His early-morning Patterson Program was famous for such imaginary whimsies as Uncle Zebs General Store in Lizzard Lick, a make-believe emporium that promoted an array of too-good-to-be-true products and get-rich-quick schemes; Fundermontz Airlines, whose World War II-era airplanes were never able to get off the ground but traveled the streets and highways picking up passengers; and Two-Flags Over Fuquay, an imaginary amusement park with with strange and bizarre rides and amusements for youngsters of all ages. Two Flags became so well known that tourists sometimes called the Chamber of Commerce seeking directions to the amusement park. Former Governor Bob Scott was an enthusiastic fan of the show and often called the station in the early morning hours to read the days school lunch menu over the air. A particular fan favorite was Johnny Dollar, whose eastern North Carolina
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September 01, 2020
In my book, Pat was the best morning ever in the Triangle. He was my friend and I am so very sad to hear that he is gone. Always in my heart Mr. Patterson.
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September 01, 2020
Pat and I worked together when he did mornings at WQDR and later when we were at Curtis Media. He was one of the best in the business and he will be sorely missed. My most sincere thoughts and prayers are with the family. Rest in Peace old friend.
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September 01, 2020
I was privileged to watch Pat work at WKIX-Am while I was a part-timer and still in school. He was generous with his knowledge and took time to answer my questions. He also encouraged me to get my degree because he said radio was fun, but not the best living. He was an awesome talent and it was a privilege to learn from him.
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September 01, 2020
My neighbor for 12 years on our wondeful cul-de-sac. Best memory is after Fran, I had hot water so everyone showered at my house and Pat walked up the drive way with his hair dryer....we had no electricity! RIP my friend.
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September 01, 2020
My life is better for having met and known Pat and his characters of friends! Thanks for sharing your work with the world.
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September 01, 2020
My condolences to the family of Pat. He was indeed a legend and by far the best morning show ever. He kept me laughing through college at NCSU and later years.
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September 01, 2020
To the Patterson Family, please accept my deepest sympathies during this time. Pat was a daily companion to me during the 70's via the airwaves, and he allowed me to coach his son John back in the day. As I view Pat's picture , I see the same impish grin (and haircut) that I remember in John. Rest well Pat. Prayers and Peace, Bob Siff
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September 01, 2020
Pat and the cast of characters that he brought us each day is something I'll always remember.His wit and comedy were priceless.
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September 01, 2020
Like so many, many people in the Triangle, I woke up and got ready for work with Mr. Patterson. His wit was classic and we all loved him. I know he's got 'em laughing in heaven. God speed, Mr. Patterson.
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September 01, 2020
Dear Becky, John and Kristi, Please accept my condolences. As I am in my 80th year now, I grieve with you. I have so many great memories of Pat and the family as your doctor and friend, enough to make me smile. I think Pat is up there sitting on a cloud, smiling down on us here! Sincerely, Lin Church, MD
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September 01, 2020
Pat's Wit and Wisdom made getting up soo early to catch the bus to Ligon an enjoyable act! He was truly a model for the modern radio morning comedy format! My condolences to Pat's family be proud of his impact in the Greater 2 flags area!
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September 01, 2020
I'm one of many listeners who heard Pat Patterson on the radio and when I went to the visitation I was very impressed of the photo montage of the career of a radio legend. I remember the tv commercial he did for KIX back in the early 1970's. He was funny and bring a smile on your face. 40 months ago when he was on WPTF radio he brought those memories back and he has not lost his touch. Like Jimmy Capps,Bart Ritner and other triangle radio legends there would be no one like Pat Patterson. My condolences to his wife and family.
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September 01, 2020
Dear Becky and family: I was unable to get to Pat's service but as a fellow broadcaster I always admired your husband's amazing talent. He was one of a kind, a creative original. He made his stand in Raleigh and the city is better for it because he supported so many community projects and public service events. When I went from WPTF to WRAL-TV the KIX Men Of Music were the hottest radio team in Raleigh. They had put together a basketball team they used to raise money for good causes. Pat was the team leader and best player. When they challenged WRAL-TV, Jim Goodmon and I were on the team that was to meet the challenge. It was a massacre. Pat and his boys embarrassed us, ran the score up, and did everything but throw us out of the gym. We learned later that the KIX team actually had regular practice sessions and were in good condition for a basketball game. We will always miss this good man. The unique sound of his voice will remain in my memory forever. During this sad time Nancy and I will hold you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Charlie Gaddy
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September 01, 2020
Lit a candle in memory of William "Pat" Patterson
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September 01, 2020
Lit a candle in memory of William "Pat" Patterson
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September 01, 2020
Lit a candle in memory of William "Pat" Patterson
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September 01, 2020
Lit a candle in memory of William "Pat" Patterson
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September 01, 2020
Sent a gift in memory of William "Pat" Patterson
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