Jack A. Patterson of Salt lake City, UT. while during a courageous fight with Mesothelioma, he tripped and fell but was too weak to recover. Jack passed away on March 4, 2017. His final days were surrounded with loved ones and his brothers in arms at The Mervyn Sharp Bennion Central Utah Veterans Home. He was born on December 23, 1924 in Salt Lake City Utah to Anna Augusta and Lynn Alvis Patterson. On July 16th 1943 Jack enlisted in the Army while he was only 17 and turned 18 that following December. Jack served in the US Fifth Army, 91st Division, 166th Field Artillery Brigade and the 348th Field Artillery Regiment. As the war with Germany was ending Jack was sent home and was part of the 864th Artillery unit at the time of his discharge on September 10th 1945. Jack received campaign medals for the Rome-Arno campaign from January 22nd ‚ September 9, 1944 and the North Apennines (Battle of the Bulge) campaign from September 10th 1944- April 4 th 1945, (Jack turned 19 years old during the Battle of the Bulge) and the PO Valley campaign from April 5 th - May 8 th 1945. During these campaigns Jack was awarded three Bronze Star Medals with V devices, (V for valor) which is awarded to individuals who, while serving in the United States Armed Forces in a combat theater, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or by meritorious service. He also received a Good Conduct medal and the World War II Victory medal and was honorably discharged.
He was employed with Utah Power Company for 35 years. He married the love of his life and best pal, Betty. They shared a beautiful journey together for 66 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Jean and Beverly, and brothers, Todd and Francis. He is survived by his wife Betty E. Jackson, sons, Rocky Dunroe (Judy), Jack Patterson Jr. (Peggy) and daughter Lori Barr (Craig). He has 10 beautiful granddaughters, 26 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. He was a member of the LDS church and relied on the power of the priesthood many times throughout his life. He had a loving heart and was a hero to many. Jack was the strength and anchor of his family. We extend a heartfelt thank you to his nephew Kenny Prince for all his support and love. We express special thanks to Midas Hospice for the past 18 months, and to all the wonderful nurses and caregivers at the Veterans Center. We will truly miss you dad and your wonderful example to all.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 9, 2017 at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. Dimple Dell Rd. (10600 S.) in Sandy with a visitation from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services.
