Jeffrey E. Patterson

Jeffrey Earl Patterson, age 54, passed away December 27, 2015, CST from injuries sustained earlier that day in a motorbike accident in Phuket, Thailand. A celebration of Jeff's life will be held on Sunday, January 17 at Mason-Lindhart Funeral Home, 612 2nd Ave S., Humboldt, IA from 3 – 5 p.m. The family encourages guests to arrive at 3:00 and stay for the duration.


He was born November 29, 1961 in Fort Dodge, IA to Bill and Josephine (JoAnn) Patterson. Jeff attended school in Humboldt, Iowa, where he participated in many athletics/events, of which wrestling brought him the most joy. He continued his love of wrestling in college, participating in the wrestling program's practice sessions. After high school, Jeff attended the University of Iowa, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1987 and a Master of Physical Therapy degree in 1990.

He spent most of his physical therapy career providing care while living in Hawaii, where he loved to run, bike, swim and surf, often to raise money for charities. Jeff was an ambassador of a healthy lifestyle, and encouraged anyone he could to incorporate exercise and a healthy diet in their daily routine, in an effort to improve their health and quality of life. It was this principle that allowed Jeff to get the most out of his life, even though he was challenged by significant health issues for most of his life. He lived with the belief that you can do whatever you set your mind to and work hard to achieve.

When his health prevented him from continuing his physical therapy vocation, he was accepted in to the College of Law at Willamette University, where he studied law until his health forced him to leave the program.

Jeff enjoyed traveling and spending time with friends and family. After having recently completed medical school, he went to Thailand to visit friends and planned an extended stay.

Jeff was preceded in death by: parents, Bill and JoAnn; sisters, Genevieve and Barbara; brothers, Mitchell and Brian; and a great niece. He is survived by: siblings, Renee (Wayne) Dyvig of Humboldt; William (Mary Jean) Patterson of Madison, WI; Angela (Judy) Patterson Davis of Jacksonville, NC; Mary Patterson of Gainesville, TX; Jennifer Patterson of Humboldt; Betty Patterson of Austin, TX; Thomas (John) Patterson of Brooklyn, NY; nieces and nephews, Jodie (Dyvig) Richter, Jeremy Dyvig, Joshua Dyvig, James Patterson, Kyle Patterson, Jeanna Patterson, Travis Zinnel, Ashley Zinnel; and 10 great nieces and nephews.

Jeff had a terrific sense of humor and we know there are many great stories we will all enjoy sharing. The family is at peace knowing he has gone home to be with his Lord and Savior.


In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a memorial fund to assist with bringing Jeff home. Remaining funds will be donated to charity. Memorials may be made to the Jeff Patterson Memorial Fund, C/O William Patterson, 612 2nd Ave S., Humboldt, IA 50548.