

Kenneth was born September 1, 1943 in Centreville Township to Herman Gayle Sr. and Irene Gertrude (Whitaker) Patterson.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Donald Patterson, Arnold Patterson, Phillip Patterson and his sister, Phyllis Patterson.
He married Donna Watson on 30th of June 1962 in Centreville, IL. Together, they shared 63 years of marriage. She survives and resides in Waterloo, IL.
Also surviving are their three children, Phyllis (Jim) Wilkerson of Waterloo, IL, Kim (Scott) Westbrook of Swansea, IL and Kennth W. Patterson Jr. of Waterloo, IL; grandchildren, Jimmy (Rachel), Mathew (Tristan), Keegan (Michaela), Kendra (Brandon), Kaylee, Tyler (Alliana), Nico and Gabriela; great-grandchildren, Jacob, Leighton, Jaxton, Madilyn, William, Violet, Scarlett, Catileya, Oliver, Kaylin and Owen; and surviving siblings Herman Gayle Patterson Jr of Freeburg, IL, and Michael Glenn Patterson Sr (Sharon) of Florida.
Kenneth passed away peacefully and surrounded by his loving family. He left behind a lifetime of dedication, love, and quiet joy.
Kenneth spent many years working as a grocery buyer, a career that took he and Donna to Texas and Kentucky before ultimately bringing him back home to Illinois. He took great pride in his work and the many relationships he built along the way.
Above all else, Kenneth loved his family deeply. His children and grandchildren were the center of his world, and he treasured every moment spent with them. In years past, Kenneth and his beloved Donna shared many happy evenings dancing together, creating memories filled with music and laughter. In years past, he also enjoyed time on the golf course, where he appreciated both the game and the friendships it brought.
Kenneth will be remembered for his steady presence, his warm love for his family, and the simple pleasures that brought him happiness. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A visitation for Kenneth will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
A funeral service will be held following the visitation, at 12:00 PM. Cremation rites will be accorded after services.
Memorial donations may be made to Friends of Kids with Cancer, 16 Sunnen Dr Suite 161, St. Louis, MO 63143. Donations may also be given at the funeral home.
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