James Lloyd Patterson, Sr.

James Lloyd Patterson Sr. (aka “The Big Guy”) was born on January 14, 1938, in Omaha, NE to Lloyd & Virginia Patterson. The oldest of five children, he graduated from Omaha North High School and served in the Army National Guard. Later he began working at Northwestern Bell, met a farm girl named Clara Belle Thurlow, and fell in love. They were married for 59 years and together raised four children. Big Guy enjoyed his family, conversation, storytelling, horse racing, bowling, playing cards, square dancing and hockey. He tolerated camping, fishing and the great outdoors as his wife loved these activities. He was a devoted brother, father, grandfather and husband, and always had a smile, a joke, and a sports headline ready to share. His quick wit, sharp mind, and kind-hearted nature will be forever missed by those fortunate enough to have known him. Jim is survived by James L. Jr., Richard (Corey), all of Omaha; Deborah (Brendan) Wiechert, Spokane WA; and Michelle (Peter) Hindman, Lawrence KS. Also surviving are 6 grandchildren, brothers Bill (Barb), Mike (Beth), sisters Jean Bond and Janet Cool, and caregiver Kathy Stufft. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Clara Belle, and infant son David.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 5419 N. 114th St, on Tuesday, 2/21/23 at 10:30 a.m. VISITATION with the family will begin on Monday, 2/20/23 at 5 p.m. at John A. Gentleman Mortuary 1010 N. 72nd St with a WAKE SERVICE at 7 p.m. Charitable contributions will be split between St. Elizabeth’s Ann Church and Saunders County Medical Center.