Norman LeRoy Patterson's Obituary
Norman LeRoy Patterson, age 80, passed away Monday, August 2, 2021. He was born June 18, 1941 in Muskegon, MI to Ralph and Pearl (Nyquist) Patterson. Norm was a 1959 graduate of Muskegon Heights High School. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served on the aircraft carrier USS Independence CVA 62 in the printing division during Vietnam. At age 15, he met and fell in love with his future wife, Mary Catherine Hvizdos, while roller skating and the rest is history. They married on June 29, 1963 in Muskegon at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Norm was a printer by trade and owned and operated Copyplate Printing in Grand Rapids for 50 years prior to his retirement. He was a member of Holy Spirit Parish in Grand Rapids and was a former member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Muskegon. He was also a member of the American Legion in Grand Haven, the Grand Rapids Elks, the Grand Rapids Club of Printing House Craftsmen, and the Walker Jaycees. When he was able, he bowled on a bowling league and loved to golf. He enjoyed watching Detroit sports, especially the Tigers and the Lions. Norm was a very loyal Michigan State sports fan as well as a season ticket holder for their football games. His favorite holiday was Groundhog Day. SURVIVORS include his wife of 58 years, Mary; son, Craig (Diana) Patterson of Birmingham, MI and their children, Sara and Ian; son, Mark (Angela) Patterson of Vacaville, CA and their children, Kamryn and Kaylee; sister, Joyce (Jerry) Schuur of Alto, MI; 2 brothers-in-law: Daniel (Louise) Hvizdos of Muskegon, David (Diane) Hvizdos of Jenison, MI; several nieces and nephews; and a faithful employee and friend, Steve (Patty) Herrmann. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 AM Friday, August 6, 2021 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with the Rev. Fr. Douglas Braun presiding. Visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Entombment will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson’s (www.kirkgibsonfoundation.org) will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100
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