Michael “Hawk” Stephen Patterson, 64, of Galesburg, died on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 in Galesburg.
He was born March 19, 1959 in Butte, Montana, the son of William James and Anne Lillian (Johnson) Patterson. Mike was reared and educated in Butte, graduating from high school in 1977. He then joined the US Navy on July 27, 1977. After Mike was discharged, he worked as a self-employed contractor. Later working for Flying-J’s Trucking for many years. He lastly worked for Blick Art Materials for about three years. Mike married Karen K. Anders in Galesburg on July 26, 2019.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Karen Patterson of Galesburg; two brothers, Timothy Patterson of Warm Springs, Montana, and William (Mary) Patterson of Shawnee, Oklahoma; two sisters, Gale (Mark) Stanley, and Diana Patterson both of Galesburg; two step-sons, Steven (Holly) Benge of Avon, Illinois, and Robert Benge of Macomb, Illinois; and one step-daughter, Kimberly (Steven) Atwell of Monmouth, Illinois. Also surviving are six step-grandchildren: Kinsley Benge, Aubrey Mason, and Nickolis, Andrew, Kody, and Kendra Atwell; two nieces, Kimberly (Matt) Dunn of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, and Jillian Helms of Galesburg; two nephews, Cody (Destiny) Helms of Peoria, Illinois, and Christopher (Barchetta) Stanley of Abingdon, Illinois; great-nephew, Collin Wainright; several aunts and uncles; and two beloved cats, Tiger and Midge. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Randall Patterson and William Patterson, Jr.; one step-grandson, Joshua Atwell; and one beloved cat, Shadow.
Mike loved playing bingo with Karen and taking care of the cats, even the strays around the neighborhood. He enjoyed tinkering around the house and building things. Mike also enjoyed going on adventures in his van. He was always there to lend a helping hand and will be remembered for his happy and easy-going personality. Mike enjoyed joking around and having a good laugh, celebrating each and every holiday, and working on his trucks along with riding his motorcycle.
Cremation will be accorded. Burial of cremated remains will take place at a future date in East Linwood Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorials may be made to the family in care of Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
