Don was born on December 6, 1941, to Virginia Gardner and Elwood Patrick Patterson in Winchester, VA.
He joined the Navy in 1960 and served in Okinawa where he met his wife, Mitsuko Kinjo. Later, he joined the Army and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer in Aviation Maintenance.
He is survived by his Loving wife Mitsuko Knijo, three children - Leonia, Cheryl and Donald, four sisters, one brother, four grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.
Don had many hobbies including archery, cowboy shooting, and building and flying RC aircraft.
A memorial service will be held for Don on Wednesday September 16, 2025 at noon at the Wells Dignity Funeral Home in Plant City, FL.
