Norman Dean Patterson
August 5, 1944 – April 17, 2025
Norman Dean Patterson was born on August 5, 1944, in Callaway, Nebraska, to Floyd and Addalecia Patterson. Norm was the youngest of three children. He grew up on the family farm-land that has been in the Patterson family for over 150 years. From an early age, Norm showed a passion for driving- so much so that he was known for taking a tractor to elementary school.
A graduate of Callaway High School, Norm excelled in football, basketball, and track, and was honored as Athletic King. While he loved sports, he had a great appreciation for cars. His first car was a 1957 Chevy, but after getting his 1959 Ford Fairlane convertible, he became a lifelong Ford man.
On May 26, 1963, Norm married his high school sweetheart, Lynetta Leigh. They honeymooned on the road as they moved to start a new life in Orange California. Norm started his truck driving career with Welch’s Ready Mix Concrete Company ( later Transit Mixed Concrete), a job which he genuinely loved. He was recognized for his outstanding safety record – 3 million miles without an accident.
Norm and Lynetta raised three children: Connie, David, and Cindy. He retired after 32 years, and could not wait to travel with Lynetta in their RV. They visited every state in the U.S. except Florida, missing it only due to a hurricane. They enjoyed fishing, hiking, biking, and especially time in Pismo beach.
Norm was active in the Taft Community Church where he served faithfully as an usher for 50 years.
Norm is preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Addalecia; his sister, La Donna; and his brother, Charles.
He is survived by his wife, Lynetta; his children: Connie (Lou) Schmidt, Dave (Michelle) Patterson, and Cindy (Christian) Corrigan; and his grandchildren: Jake, Jessica, Joshua, and Alisha (Tanner)
Norm’s legacy is one of dedication to faith, family, and the value of hard work.