Lawrence E. “Larry” Patterson, 76, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Genesis Medical Center, East Campus, in Davenport, Iowa.

Lawrence Eugene Patterson was born on March 16, 1948 in Finley, Ohio to Elmer Eugene and Vera Joyce (Higgins) Patterson.  Larry’s early years were spent in Delmar, where he attended Delwood High School, graduating in 1966. His strong sense of duty led him to serve his country in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. For his bravery and sacrifice, he was awarded a Purple Heart. Upon returning home, Larry’s heart led him to Kathy Takes, and they were united in marriage on March 11, 1988, in Maquoketa, Iowa. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Lucas, Nikki, and Rebecca.

After his military service, Larry began his civilian career at General Thermal, followed by Precision Metal Works, both in Maquoketa. He found his calling as a welder at McLaughlin Motors Body Shop in Moline, where he dedicated 25 years before retiring in 2016. Even in retirement, Larry continued working part-time at Theisen’s in Maquoketa for two years.

Larry’s passions extended beyond his work. He was an avid outdoorsman, who especially loved hunting and fishing. His love for the outdoors was matched by his talent in the kitchen. Larry was known for his cooking, vegetable gardening, canning, and particularly for making his own jerky.

Those left to honor Larry’s memory include his wife, Kathy Patterson of Maquoketa, IA; children, Lucas “Luke” (Mackenzie) Patterson of Maquoketa, IA, Nikki (Mitch) Ogle of Bluffton, SC, and Rebecca Patterson of Maquoketa, IA; 6 grandchildren, Sawyer, Keller, Griffin, Gracilyn, Harper, and Hayden; a brother, David (Jackie) Patterson of Ladora, IA; sisters, Linda Patterson of Maquoketa, IA, Brenda (Steve) Paulsen of Delmar, IA, and Patty (Loren) Rockwell of Maquoketa, IA; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and a nephew Bryon Clark.

A celebration of his life will be held at 1:30 P.M., Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Friday, March 7, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial with military honors will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Lawrence E. “Larry” Patterson memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.