Randall Dean Patterson, 54, of Tacoma, Washington passed away Monday, November 20, 2006. Born August 10, 1952 in Twin Falls, Idaho, he was the husband of Barbara (Lake) Patterson and the father to Debra Bramlett and Kellie Patterson, grandfather to Madisyn and Sala, and son of the late Dean and Sharon Patterson. Randy was a deeply devoted father, husband, son and brother. His daughters were a loving priority for Randy, and a source of enduring pride. His home is filled with their smiling photos. Randy shared his life with his devoted wife Barbara, who tended to him with tenderness, love and respect. Randy always had a strong sense of responsibility for his three younger brothers, David, Phillip, and Rick, believing he had a duty to set the best example for them, to care and protect them. Randy was the ultimate big brother. Randy also had a wonderful sense of humor. His bright green eyes sparkled when teasing friends and family with the latest practical joke. Randy had deep roots in the Gig Harbor area where he attended Peninsula High School and worked nearly 30 years at Bangor Naval Submarine Base as a civilian contractor. Randy was a member of the Gig Harbor Grange No. 445. As a former volunteer at the Gig Harbor Fire Department, the Washington State Firefighter's Association and the Washington State Senate recognized him for his gallant rescue efforts. Randy was much more than an avid hunter, it was a life style to which he was deeply committed. He was a Life Sponsor and tireless worker for Ducks Unlimited. Randy was celebrated with numerous Ducks Unlimited awards for his leadership and fundraising skills. He earned the Bronze Mallard award in 2000, the state-wide award for best District Chair 2001, the Marcus Nalley award in 2003, the Joe Hall Gold Mallard award in 2003, and the Silver Mallard award in 2006, among others. Randy found joy in hunting and exemplified the truth that hunters are the original conservationists. Randy shared the vision of Ducks Unlimited to have sufficient wetlands to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Randy believed strongly in the Ducks Unlimited commitment that at least 80 percent of its resources be dedicated to conservation, and to restoring and managing wetlands and associated habitats for waterfowl. Survivors include his wife Barbara, daughter Debra Bramlett and son-in-law Dewayne, daughter Kellie Patterson and granddaughters Madisyn and Sala, brother David (Page), Phillip (Fonda), and Rick (Shelli) Patterson, several nieces, nephews, and sisters-in-law. Funeral service will be held 1:00 p.m. Monday, November 27, 2006 at Haven of Rest Funeral Chapel, Highway 16, Gig Harbor. There will be a viewing on Sunday, November 26 at 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Gaffney Funeral Home. Remembrances in the form of a donation can be sent to Ducks Unlimited, 5814 Crescent Beach Road, Vaughn, WA 98394. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home.

Published in the News Tribune (Tacoma) on 11/22/2006.