Born in Wahoo, Nebraska the youngest child of school teachers Ellen and William Patton, Rich lived a life of intention, commitment and fun.

An honor graduate of both University of Nebraska Lincoln and the Nebraska College of Medicine he accepted a pathology residency at the University of Washington School of Medicine and earned the title of chief resident. While at UNL he also mastered the art of a ten minute nap and used that to great advantage throughout his life.

His entire career was spent at his dream job practicing both clinical and surgical pathology at Northwest Hospital. He was a long time volunteer regional commissioner for the ASCPA, an organization that accredits laboratories. In addition he founded Magnolia Medical Technologies which produces devices that eliminate false positives in blood cultures.

Rich challenged himself by climbing Mt Rainier twice, running marathons and skiing back country. He kept fit by swimming an hour every day. History books filled his library shelves.

Rich met Jeannie Fauss in Miami on the eve of the 1964 Orange Bowl which was the start of a 62 year relationship.

Together Rich and Jean travelled the world independently. Navigating Budapest in deep twilight pre GPS with only a map in Hungarian language was a typical adventure.

Together Rich and Jean mastered the tango at milangas both in Seattle and in Argentina.

Together Rich and Jean learned to sail. The SV True Love, a J42 provided years of pleasure and occasional adventure in the Salish Sea.

Together Rich and Jean attended SIFF, Berlinale, Seattle Symphony, PNW Ballet and the Seattle Rep.

Together Rich and Jean lived lovingly in a home they restored in Magnolia. And of course Rich loved driving his 1976 911 targa always wearing a fedora.

Together Rich and Jean raised John Patton husband of Jenny Zenner and Kathryn Beal wife of Bruce Beal. All four are outstanding human beings.

Brady, Bowden, Annette, Fauss and Harris are their absolutely perfect grandchildren.