Robert Paul Patterson

Robert Paul “Bob” Patterson, age 85, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026, at his home in Sterling Heights, Michigan, surrounded by his family.

Born on May 13, 1941, in Atlanta, Georgia, he was the second son of John Paul Patterson and Elaine M. (McCleskey) Patterson.

Bob graduated from Grosse Pointe High School in 1959 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Wayne State University in December 1963. His career as a design clay sculptor began in 1964 at Chrysler before he transitioned to Ford Motor Company. Ultimately, he found his professional home at General Motors, where he worked for 33 years until his retirement on July 1, 2003. Bob’s talent and dedication were evident in his contributions to various studios and projects. One of the highlights of his career was working on the Cadillac Sixteen concept car for the 2003 Detroit Auto Show. While the car itself never went into production, its innovative design influenced future Cadillac models for many years.

Bob’s personal life was rich and fulfilling. He married Lynn Shealy on January 18, 1964, and together they raised two daughters. Later, Bob found love again with Jane (Hosler, Gifford), whom he married on June 21, 1997. They shared 29 wonderful years of blended family life filled with love and adventure.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Jane, and Annie, their 6-pound Yorkie; his daughters Cheryl Patterson and Karen (Patterson, Campbell) Gabridge (Greg); stepchildren Jessie (Gifford) Campbell (Scott) and David Gifford (Kayce); grandchildren Jake Patterson, Trevor Campbell (Stephanie), Kyle Campbell, Ashlyn Campbell, Mason Gabridge, Riley Gabridge, Myles Gabridge, John Campbell, James Campbell, Daniel Campbell, David Campbell, Esther Campbell, Matthew Campbell, Mark Campbell, and Calvin Gifford.

He is also survived by his brothers Wayne Patterson (Linda) and Doug Patterson (Diane). He was known as Uncle Robert/Bob to many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and brother Carl.

Bob’s hobbies reflected his love for family and community. He cherished working with his grandsons on Pinewood Derby cars and wood projects for the church Christmas Market. He also enjoyed home improvement projects and birdwatching. Family game nights playing Aggravation brought him endless joy. Retirement was a time of great happiness for Bob, as he and Jane traveled across the United States with their fifth-wheel RV and truck. Together they explored national and state parks and participated in over 25 service projects through NOMADS Mission Volunteers. These projects included rebuilding efforts at disaster sites, as well as repairs at churches and camps. Through these experiences, Bob and Jane formed lasting friendships while giving back to those in need.

A man of deep faith, Bob grew up in a Christian home. His faith was profoundly influenced by attending the Walk to Emmaus and serving on Chrysalis weekends. Summer Games Camp and Bayshore Family Camp with grandchildren also expanded his faith. He joined Grace United Methodist Church in 1995. At Grace UMC, he was an active member of the Men’s Group and a Lay Reader but found his greatest joy singing in the church choir. Sharing his voice in worship was one of the ways he expressed his love for God. During his illness, Bob leaned heavily on his faith and shared with many a vision of being guided toward Heaven by a comforting hand on his right shoulder — a testament to the peace he felt knowing Jesus awaited him with open arms.

Bob’s legacy is one of kindness, creativity, faithfulness, and service to others. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Visitation on Friday, July 31, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. The Celebration of Robert P. Patterson will begin at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary, followed by a lunch in Fellowship Hall. Grace United Methodist Church (49655 Jefferson Avenue, New Baltimore)

Memorial donations may be made to: Grace UMC – Choir 49655 Jefferson Ave New Baltimore, MI 48047 or Methodist NOMADS P.O. Box 9066 Hot Springs Village, AR 71910