To love and be loved are essential qualities of a life fulfilled. William "Bill" Patterson loved deeply - especially his brother, business partner and best friend in the world, Rick, and his sister, Kate, whom he admired since their school days (and tortured mercilessly when they were young!) Bill became engaged in November to the woman he called “the love of his life”, Holly. Bill and Holly believed only God could have brought them together during a pandemic. Tragically, it was also responsible for separating them before their life together had truly begun. So many have been blessed by Bill’s affections, deep love and commitment to them.
Bill had a disarming sense of humor, delivered with a twinkle in his eye.
He was passionate about golf, the Carolina Panthers, Tarheel basketball,
social and racial justice, and every kind of cuisine. Very private and simple
in his own living, Bill gave generously to both local and worldwide causes.
His heart was open to everyone.
Born and raised in Charlotte, NC., Bill, graduated from Independence High
School and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, returning home
to become the first pediatric respiratory therapist in the city. For over 25
years, he was a dedicated therapist at Presbyterian (Novant) hospital.
Bill launched a second career when he joined Flextrol Corporation, a
company founded by his father in 1982. As a corporate partner and sales
manager, Bill was an integral part of Flextrol’s growth and success over the
last 25 years. His intelligence, professionalism, and easygoing manner will
be missed by customers and employees alike.
Bill leaves behind to cherish his memory: fiancée, Holly Zemke; sisters,
Kate Buckfelder (Rob), and Cindy Patterson; brother, Rick Patterson
(Karen); nieces and nephews, Cole Buckfelder (Cristina), Laura Buckfelder,
Libby Buckfelder, Michael Patterson; great niece and nephew, Charlotte
and Robert Buckfelder; as well as his beloved aunt and uncle, Helen Anne
and Dick Patterson, and numerous cousins.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William Robert Patterson, Sr. and
Helen Sullivan Patterson.
A service celebrating Bill’s life will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church in
Salisbury on January 6, 2021, at 1:00 pm. Due to the pandemic, the service will
be limited to immediate family, but extended family and friends can attend
virtually by zoom. A link to watch the service can be found on the online
obituary at www.dignitymemorial.com.
Memorials may be made to the J. Iverson Riddle Development Center, c/o
Volunteer Services, 300 Enola Rd, Morganton, NC 28655 or World Vision,
PO Box 78481, Tacoma, WA. 98481-8481 (worldvision.org)
Condolences may be offered online at www.mcewenminthillchapel.com.
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