William Robinson "Bill" Patterson
Obituaries
Daily Sentinel page 5A - May 13, 2020
William Robinson
Patterson
January 4, 1935 - April 18, 2020
At the farm on 26 Road where
he devoted so many hours,
William R. Patterson died
peacefully with loving family
around him. He was a much
respected Orthopedic Surgeon
who practiced over four decades
in the Grand Valley. In choosing
Grand Junction he joined a
thriving medical community and he quickly became known for his
tireless dedication while caring for his patients. Slowly he built his
practice which eventually became Rocky Mountain Orthopedics.
With his partners and all their excellent staff, they provided the best
possible orthopedic care.
Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Bill was forever grateful for
the sacrifices his parents made in bringing the family to America.
Settling in Columbus, Ohio, his work ethic was apparent as he
delivered papers and mowed lawns before he began his higher
education at Ohio State University. He attended both college and
medical school at Ohio State University. Interning at the University
of Colorado Hospital in Denver gave him his first look at Colorado.
Following two years of service in the Air Force, he went on to
complete his orthopedic residency at the University of Michigan.
Friendships were immensely important to him, and he remained
close to many college and medical school classmates, making
annual trips to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
He married Joan Tempel, and they had three children together.
They later divorced, but his children and grandchildren were always
his greatest source of pride and joy. Living in Grand Junction
allowed him to pursue the things he loved; caring for the farm,
hunting, fishing, hiking, and simply being outdoors. Pinon Mesa
was one of Bill’s favorite places and he made countless outings
there with many of his closest friends and family. In the outdoors
he was able to show his children the importance of caring for the
land and all living creatures.
In 1985 he married Donna Radford, RN. Over the years they
began a search for land to pass to the children, and acquired a cabin
on the Taylor River, and later a ranch in Montana. These beautiful
places brought the family together many times. He loved teaching
his grandchildren practical life skills like driving an old jeep, fly
fishing, and looked for every opportunity to share his appreciation
for nature.
Dedicated to the medical community, he recognized the joy of
being in a profession he loved. He fulfilled leadership roles at St.
Mary’s Hospital including Chief of Staff. As a man who cherished
friendships, he was always willing to lend a hand. During his
lengthy career he donated time overseas, providing care in both
Nepal and Bhutan.
Quiet and unassuming, he was willing to share his expertise on
anything. Never idle, he loved projects, building a pond on the
farm, constructing a barn and cow shed, working on old cars and
refinishing furniture. He was an avid reader with an interest in
many subjects, including biographies, finance, and anything about
the natural world. His table was stacked with journals and books as
he continued to learn throughout his life.
Always accompanied by his beloved dogs, Bill spent his last
years around the farm changing irrigation, mending fence, and just
enjoying the little sanctuary he created.
He is survived by his wife, Donna; daughter, Robin; son, Tom;
eight grandchildren; brothers, James Patterson, MD, and Alan
Patterson, MD, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
His oldest son, Bill, predeceased
