Dr. James A. Patterson's Obituary
Dr. James A. “Jim” Patterson, 79, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born in Muskegon, Michigan, to Mary Louise Tillis and James Patterson Sr., Jim was the eldest son of eight children and embraced responsibility for his siblings, nieces, and nephews from a young age.
Jim graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central High School and Western Michigan University before teaching Biology and Science to high school students. Called to deeper service, he earned his medical degree from Wayne State University and completed a Family Practice residency in Kalamazoo, where he met lifelong friends Kevin and Peggy Jessen. He went on to practice Family and Emergency Medicine in Michigan and Wisconsin, serving as a physician, medical director, clinic manager, and advocate for patient-centered, accessible care.
Jim is survived by his children Mary (Di Ena Davis), Lauren, and Jakob (Meggie Royer); grandson Alexander; siblings Daphne Jones, Paula Patterson, and Michael Patterson; and many beloved nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Joan Bell, Linda Patterson, Jacqueline Patterson, and Dr. Daryl Patterson. He leaves behind many dear friends and loved ones, including Nancy Wenzel Patterson, the mother of his children; Jennifer Sutton, his long-time partner, and her children (Megan, Molly, and Tanner).
A prayer service will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah, Wisconsin, followed by visitation until 5:00 PM. A Memorial Mass will take place at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Parish, 196 W. Webster Ave Muskegon, Michigan 49440 on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 11:00 AM, with visitation taking place an hour prior. Following the service he will be buried near his family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Queen of the Apostles School (Tomah, WI) via the "Guardian Angel" Fund.
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