Richard "Dick" Thomas Patterson

Richard Thomas “Dick” Patterson was born on October 11, 1936 in Fort Dodge, Iowa to parents, Ralph and Marylou (Thomas) Patterson. He passed away peacefully at his home in Irrigon, Oregon surrounded by his loved ones and his beloved dogs on March 16, 2026 at the age of 89 years. Dick joined the United States Marine Corps at the age of 17 years, in 1953. He served proudly in the Marine Honor Guard Platoon until his honorable discharge in 1956. Dick lived his life as a proud American who loved his Country. He then started his career as a  truck driver in Colorado, driving a coal truck. Dick later purchased his own truck and started his long haul trucking business that spanned over 40 years. He proudly proclaimed going from coast to coast and border to border where he was known by his (cb handle) “Chick-N-Little”. In the 90's, Dick settled in Irrigon, Oregon where he met and married Teena Phillips. For over 30 years he has provided a wonderful home for his wife, family and numerous dogs, all of whom he loved deeply. Dick will be remembered by his family and community as a gifted mechanic with a quick wit and had a wonderful sense of humor. He was the self appointed greeter at the Irrigon gas station for many years where he never met a stranger and could call them by name after the first meeting. Dick was the goto guy for lawn mower repair for years.

“Mr. P. My Love,
It has been my honor and privilege to be your wife and to be loved by you”
Love Forever, Your Wife, Teena

May we all sleep more peacefully knowing that we have another Marine guarding the gates of Heaven.

He is survived by his wife: Teena; her daughters: Rachelle & Nareta; her grandchildren: Sage, Ava, Rehett & Cruz; his son: Greg; his daughters: Kelli, Carrie & Jessey; along with many other extended family who loved hi dearly.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; 3 sons: Scott, Jimmy & Richie; daughter: Mary Ellen and sisters: Dorothy & Marylou.          

A private family gathering will be held at a later date.

Please share memories of Dick with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com

Burns Mortuary of Hermiston, Oregon is in care of arrangements.   

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard "Dick" Thomas Patterson, please visit our floral store.