Robert Eugene Patterson of North Judson, Indiana, passed away on July 19, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Bob, a native of Greencastle, Indiana, was born on October 8, 1946, to Reba Cronkite and Robert James.
Bob’s early years were filled with the simple joys of small-town life. As a young teenager, he discovered a passion for music when he stepped into the piano practice rooms at DePauw University. Despite lacking formal music lessons or the ability to read music, he taught himself to play numerous instruments, including the piano, organ, drums, and trombone, eventually, mastering the art of transposing musical instruments and vocals. His professional music career began at the age of fourteen when Bob joined the John Woods Combo, performing throughout the Greencastle area. His musical talent and dedication paved the way for a successful music career, playing with groups including The Chevelles, The Deltas, The Shambles, Just Before Dark, Rainbow Sunday, Teaser, Acousticats, Three Piece Suit and Classic Vinyl. Bob’s lifelong passion for music found expression in his original compositions that reflected his love for life, family, and the contentment that small-town living provided.
In 1965 Bob’s family settled in North Judson where he would later meet the love of his life, Barbara Gumz. Their almost 50-year life journey began in 1975 and soon included the addition of their three children, Jonathan, Ashley and Michael.
In 1973, Bob and his brother Jerry partnered to establish Patterson’s Restaurant, well known in the area for its Italian Beef. His love of music continued later in the 1970s with the opening of Patterson Music in Monticello and West Lafayette, finally building his own store in Lafayette. As his family grew, his life became more centered on the needs of the family farm operation.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Bob was known for his warm-hearted humor, love for life and deep devotion to his family and friends. He found great joy hosting gatherings filled with laughter and music. His love for Barbara was evident in their enduring partnership, marked by mutual support and shared passions. Together, they created a warm and welcoming home where hospitality, humor and kindness were abundant. Bob’s unwavering Catholic faith profoundly shaped his life. Confronted with his diagnosis, he embraced gratitude for a blessed life and approached death without fear.
Bob’s enduring legacy lies in the joy of music he shared with everyone who heard him perform. His favorite Sunday afternoons were spent making music with the family, recently teaching horn parts to his twin grandsons.
Bob is deeply missed by his loving wife Barbara, and their children—Jonathan (Karin) of Valparaiso, Ashley of Valparaiso, and Michael of North Judson; his grandchildren Edie, George, Charlie and Henry Patterson, all of Valparaiso. In addition to his immediate family, Bob is survived by his brothers Jerry (Lois) Patterson, and Joe and James Cronkite. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Linda.
Bob’s memory lives on through the joy he brought to any room, the lives he touched and the memories he created. He will be remembered fondly for his generosity, creativity and unwavering love for life, family, and the simple pleasures of small-town living.
Visitation will be from 4-8 PM CT Friday July 26, 2024, with a 7:30 PM Scriptural Wake Service and after 9 AM Saturday at the O’Donnell Funeral Home, Inc., North Judson, Indiana. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 AM Saturday July 27, 2024 at SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church.
Memorials may be made to the Richard H Gumz Agricultural Scholarship Fund or to the charity of the donor’s choice.
