Thomas Anthony Patterson

Thomas Anthony Patterson, age 55, of Caledonia passed away on Wednesday, November 7, 2018 at Faith Hospice surrounded by his family and friends.  Tom was a graduate of Caledonia High School Class of 1981 and Grand Rapids Junior College.  He spent his life making memories in Caledonia, Michigan; raising two wonderful children, Tyler Thomas and Taylor Lee.  He was active in the community, contributing by building the concession stands at the baseball diamond and soccer field.  Along with his full-time career, he managed to attend each of his children’s games.  His competitive spirit motivated him to coach winning teams when needed.  He began his working career at Hilti.  He was a great salesperson, receiving recognition and many awards for his hard work.  He bought his first house at 22 yrs. old, building always being a passion of his.  He pursued a construction career and formed many friendships throughout the years with the people he worked with.  He was a visionary and quality builder.  He built several custom homes, including his own.  Tom was a sports enthusiast, both playing and watching his favorite team, MSU.  He enjoyed playing softball, golf, and basketball, and especially the camaraderie of his friends.  Tom enjoyed two long lasting, annual traditions: Beer Bowl for over 20 years, playing football with great friends on Superbowl Sunday.  Also enjoyed an annual fishing trip with his family to Canada.  He enjoyed many road trip adventures with his R.V., traveling throughout Michigan, Louisiana, and Maine.  He and Janet recently enjoyed an Alaskan cruise.  Tom had the gift of storytelling.  Many nights were spent around a bonfire, enjoying the tales he could tell.  Tom has touched many lives and we are blessed with the outpouring of stories and love from everyone.  He was preceded in death by his father, Michael M. Patterson in 2013.  Tom was dedicated to the care of his ailing father.   He will be lovingly remembered by his fiancé, Janet Howard; mother, Cecilia Patterson; children: Tyler Thomas and Taylor Lee; brothers: Phil, Mike and Patrick; sister, Molly Fleming; their spouses, Amy, Jane, Teresa and Brian; Aunt Ruth; Uncle Harold; loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday at Holy Family Church, 9669 Kraft Ave, Caledonia, with Rev. Lam Le officiating.  Interment St. Patrick’s Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at MKD Funeral Home, 616 E. Main St., Caledonia, with a vigil service at 8:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to Faith Hospice-Trillium Woods.    Tom’s family thanks all those who cared for him and brought him happiness through his long battle with cancer.