David Keith Patterson

David Keith Patterson, 87, of Orwell, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, in Ashtabula, Ohio.

Born on June 21, 1939, in La Harpe, Illinois, David was the son of Virgil Keith Patterson and Anna Luella (Carnes) Patterson. He graduated from La Harpe Community High School on May 28, 1958.

On June 27, 1964, David married the love of his life, Donna Lea Southard. They shared 40 years of marriage residing in Tuscon, AZ, until Donna's passing on September 19, 2004.

David proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1958 to 1962 as a Sub Tender and Pattern Maker. Following his military service, he began an apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 570 in Tucson, Arizona, where he worked as a journeyman electrician from 1964 until his retirement in 2001. David remained a proud union member for more than 62 years.

In high school, he was recognized for having a genius level IQ and he had the ability to build or repair just about anything, David was the person family and friends turned to when something needed fixing. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, playing poker and pool, playing the guitar, singing western gunslinger songs and country ballads, telling jokes, and sharing stories that brought smiles to those around him. He was also a long-time member of the Loyal Order of Moose, where he formed many lasting friendships.

David is survived by his sweetheart, Elizabeth "Betty" Hams and her family; his daughters, Leia Leistman (Bill Leistman) and Laura Dietrich (Phil Dietrich); his grandchildren, Michael Maynard, John Raymond Leonard Jr., Kenneth Hawton, Kyanna Hawton, Melanee Patterson, and Samantha Patterson; and his great-grandchildren, Ellyssa Paige Leonard, Keira Maynard, Jax Steele, Jasper Steele, Jasmine Steele, and Neoma Comeau; along with many extended family members and dear friends. He is also survived by his brother, Tom Patterson (JoAnn Patterson). Tom and David were motorcycle enthusiasts who traveled many miles and back roads together on their motorcycles. David was surrounded by many friends in his community and neighborhood who he considered family.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Donna Lea (Southard) Patterson; his parents, Virgil Keith Patterson and Anna Luella (Carnes) Patterson; his son, James Andrew Patterson; his brother, Larry Patterson; and his grandparents, James and Jessie (Cushman) Patterson. David will be joining his loving dog, Scruffy, who he cherished so much.

In accordance with David's wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Loyal Order of Moose, Moose Lodge, 6400 OH-46, Cortland, Ohio 44410, or to the Grand Valley Public Library, 1 N School St, Orwell, OH 44076.

Those wishing to honor David's memory may also consider planting a memorial tree and flowers that brough him so much joy in life.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Tony’s Garage in the city of Orwell, OH and the community he loved so much.

Lake Erie Cremation & Funeral Services, 1500 Harpersfield Rd, Geneva, OH 44041, assisted the family with arrangements.

www.LakeErieCrematory.com