Gerald E. Patterson, M.D.

Dr. Gerald E. Patterson, (Jerry) age 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by his devoted family. Guided throughout his life by intuition, faith, and compassion, he was a man whose steady hands and generous heart touched countless lives.

Born in Lowell, Massachusetts, and raised in Kenmore, New York, Jerry worked tirelessly to put himself through the University of Buffalo School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (‘62), going on to build a remarkable career in medicine, as well as a beautiful family life in East Aurora. Throughout his 33 years as a respected OB/GYN with Aurora Medical Group, Jerry shared in life’s most joyful beginnings, earning the trust and gratitude of generations of WNY families who remember his kindness, expertise, and calm reassurance.

As a proud Eagle Scout, he carried the principles of service, integrity, and perseverance into every chapter of his life, including ROTC, and eventually becoming a Captain in the U. S. Army Medical Corps. Jerry gave generously to his community, serving as School Board President for the East Aurora School District, as a CCD instructor at Immaculate Conception Church, and as an Associate Clinical Professor of OB/GYN, always striving to build stronger foundations for future generations.

A devoted husband of over sixty-four years to the love of his life, Kathy, they became the cornerstones of a large, loving family, always leading by example. Together, they raised six children and celebrated fifteen grandchildren, each one a source of pride, delight, and joy. When a journey would begin or the destination was near, Jerry would proclaim, “not so far now.” A nod to the Patterson family’s treasured Sharbot Lake and a reminder that life’s journeys are best faced with patience, humor, and hope.

Whether behind the wheel of one of his tractors or at the helm of his sailboat, casting off in a motorboat or carving the slopes on skis, or with highlighted Trip-Tik in hand, Jerry never missed a chance to impart his hard earned wisdom and pass along his love for discovery to his children and grandchildren, always finding time to reflect on the beauty of nature. His love of photography, astronomy, and travel showcased his thoughtful eye for detail and wonder, seeing in every sunrise, sunset, and star, the silver linings of life.

Jerry will be remembered for his unwavering faith, friendly spirit, and enduring love for Kathy, their family and traditions, his pursuit of knowledge, stories shared, and his zest for life itself. His journey was well-sailed and well-lived, leaving a legacy that will guide all who follow. Jerry, Jer, Dad, and Grampy will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Beloved husband of Kathleen (nee Crowley); devoted father of Thomas (Nancy) Patterson, Marybeth (late Duncan) Shaw, Julie Mooney, Linda (John) Manth, Anne-Marie (Marshall) Kern and Daniel (Anne) Patterson; cherished grandfather of Megan and Joseph Patterson, Marissa and Mitchell Shaw, Catherine, Shea and Grace Mooney, Erin (Brandon) Manth Mohr, Christopher (Allison Rung) Manth, Leah Manth, Emily Kern, Peter (Nicole) Kern, Emily (Daniel) Patterson Telban, Anna (Brad Wiley) Patterson and Julia Patterson; loving son of the late Earle L. and Margaret Patterson; dear brother of William (Mary) Patterson, David (Donna) Patterson, Helen (late Patrick) Barrett and late Marguerite (late Allen) Green; also survived by many nieces, nephews and lifelong friends. Relatives and friends are invited to Wood Funeral Home, East Aurora, NY on Friday, November 28th from 3 – 7PM and a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated in Immaculate Conception Church, East Aurora, NY on Saturday, November 29th at 11AM. Please assemble at church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Gerald’s memory to Neurofibromatosis Northeast, the organization and NF community he passionately supported: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/NFNortheastGeraldPattersonMemorial