Thomas G. Patterson's Obituary
Tom was born in Helena Montana, January 25, 1951, the son of Thomas and Agatha (Frenk) Patterson. He attended grade school and high school in Helena graduating from Helena High School; entered Eastern Montana College in Dillon Montana; transferred to the University of Montana in Missoula Montana graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He was active in local politics running for the House of Representatives.
While in Missoula Tom met and married Margaret Wright. They lived in Missoula and Big Fork Montana. They moved to Chicago where Tom managed a pet store. Returning to Helena he opened and operated his own pet store as well as an art gallery.
Obtaining his teaching certificate from the University of Montana he moved to Klamath Falls Oregon teaching English, math, and computer science at Ponderosa Middle School. He was active in the teacher’s union and attended Southern Oregon University.
Upon retirement from teaching Tom and Margaret moved to Fort Meyers Florida to live and care for Margaret’s mother Marguerite Wright. They owned Cariloha retail specialty store in Charleston South Carolina. Tom and Margaret enjoyed Florida beaches and spent time on the water in their boat. They enjoyed exploring Florida’s restaurants and attractions.
During his year long illness he lived at Cedarbrook Health and Rehab facility in Fort Meyers. He was grateful for the care and support of Hope Hospice health care and volunteer program.
Tom passed in the early morning hours of April 29th 2026. Tom is preceded in death by his wife Margaret, who passed May 20th 2020; his parents Agatha and Thomas Patterson; his father and mother in-law Marguerite and Robert Wright and other relatives.
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