Bernard (Bernie) C. Patton, 87, of Scottsdale, Arizona passed away July 17th at the Scottsdale Honor Health Shea hospital after a short illness caused by long-term health issues. He is survived by his wife Joyce Patton of 66 years and three children Pamela (Steve) Wilkison, Barry (Melody) Patton, and Gary (Denise) Patton; four grandchildren – Michaela and Vincent (Koty) Smith, Collin and Vanessa Wilkison (with great grandson “Little” Bernie), Catherine Patton, and Elizabeth Patton; and his sister Patricia Gnieski (William). Bernard was proceeded in death by his brother Robert Patton.
Bernard grew up on farms and in the farming community of south-western Iowa which initiated his life-long love of farming equipment and especially tractors (both historical and new). He especially enjoyed attending fairs, tractor pulls, and other gatherings where historical steam engines and the latest offerings from companies like John Deere were presented. This childhood love led to a career with Deere & Company in their Moline, Illinois Administration Center.
Bernard’s career spanned several companies including Deere & Company, IBM, and American Express. He served mostly in management roles in Information Technology-related departments. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Tarkio College in Missouri and an Executive MBA from Stanford University in California.
Bernie and Joyce moved to Scottsdale, Arizona from Bettendorf, Iowa in 1985. After time with American Express, he branched out by purchasing and running a deli, Bernie’s Deli, in Fashion Square Mall.
Bernard and Joyce contributed charitably to the Honor Health Hospital programs. He enjoyed attending the annual balls and other events at which they could dance to the sounds of Big Bands, one of his favorite forms of music. At home, he enjoyed helping Joyce with neighbor’s dogs, cats, and fish as well as family activities including camping, 4-wheeling, and visiting National Parks.
Bernie and Joyce were members of the Mountain View Presbyterian Church in Scottsdale and enjoyed church services with the wonderful choir and instrumentalists that play there often.
A funeral service is planned at the Bunker Family Garden Chapel (33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona, 85201) on Monday, July 29, 2024. Viewing at 9:00 am; service at 10:00 am. All friends are welcome. Internment will be in Emerson, Iowa at a date to be determined.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
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