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Milton Patterson Obituary

Milton "Sparky" Patterson II was born in Topeka, KS August 18, 1942, the son of Milton and Betty Patterson. Milton graduated from Topeka High School in 1960 where he excelled at both football and track. He was the 1960 Kansas State Champion in the 440 yard dash. He attended the University of Kansas, University of Southern California and Washburn University, culminating in an M.A. in education. He married Patricia Jeanne Schmitthenner on December 28, 1966. They lived in Topeka, KS where they were active in the community and raised their family. Milton had a long career as an educator, coach, and administrator. He taught and coached at Topeka High School, Hayden High School and was an administrator at Hayden High School, and Washburn Rural Middle School. After retirement, Milton moved with Jeanne to Lawrence, KS in 2009. Survivors include his wife of 53 years, three children, John Patterson, Cleveland, OH, Paige Comparato (Joe) Lawrence, KS, Mark Patterson, Overland Park, KS, and three grandchildren, Mia, Freddy and Stella Comparato.

Milton, known by his friends as Sparky, lived up to his nickname with his quick wit, curious nature and bold personality. He loved spending fun times with family and friends, especially weekends at Lake Wabaunsee. Always passionate about his teaching and coaching, he expected and fostered the best of those he mentored, whether it be scholastically, artistically, or athletically. He was a lifelong hunter and fisherman, often accompanied by his many loyal dogs. Milton was especially proud of his family's accomplishments in school, football, track, ballet, and soccer. He rarely missed a game, meet, performance or match and his presence on the sideline will be missed.

An open-house, celebrative memorial will be held at Arterra, 2161 Quail Creek Dr, in Lawrence, KS on December 29th from 2:00-5:00pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Catch a Break ? the LMH Endowment https://www.lmh.org/foundation/donate-online/ or American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lawrence Journal-World from Dec. 22 to Dec. 23, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Milton Patterson

Not sure what to say?





Tomas Geiss

February 24, 2020

I was blessed to have Coach Patterson as a teacher and a coach when he was at Holiday Jr High. He was an amazing teacher, a passionate coach and he made a huge difference in my life. He taught life lessons that transcended the classroom and I will always be thankful that he reached out to me as a young man.

January 2, 2020

Paige and Family,
So sorry to hear about Sparky. He was great fun at LAC and I always enjoyed running into him at the performances. Our love and prayers are with you all. Sincerely,
The Rogers Family (Kyle, Michele, Caelan and Sophia)

Judy Starbuck

December 28, 2019

Jeannie, I'm just so sad to hear about Sparky! I'll hope to be in touch after tomorrow. Thinking of you and your family with so much love and wonderful memories!❤

Warren Quillin

December 28, 2019

Jeanne we are so sorry about Sparky. We will miss him

Heartfelt Condolences Arrangement- BASKET INCLUDED

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Paula Gavlen

December 27, 2019

John,

I pray that you and your family will find joy in cherishing the fond memories you all once shared with your dad and that will soon be at peace after this difficult loss.

Sincerely,
Paula Gavlen

Sean Williams

December 25, 2019

Paige, family, and friends - my condolences to you. Warmth and love to you.

Chris Overbey

December 24, 2019

Thanks for everything, coach. A piece of you lives on in every one of us you inspired and coached and pushed

Comfort Planter

Tim Birch

Sent Flowers

Cherished Friend Bouquet- VASE INCLUDED

James Frigge

Sent Flowers

Lisa Gudenkauf Todd

December 23, 2019

Sparky was my Psychology teacher at Hayden. He was a great teacher that made class interesting with his quick wit. He always brought a smile to my face . He will be missed.

Lance Meier

December 23, 2019

Thanks for all the great years at Hayden, U will B missed...
Lance R. Meier class of 1987...

Michael Browne

December 23, 2019

I remember Coach Patterson when he was a coach and administrator at Holiday Junior High School. He was a people person. Rest In Peace, Coach!

Dan O'Mara

December 23, 2019

I am sorry to hear about Coach Patterson passing. He was a big influence on me and my athletic career. I credit my success on the track to his guidance and coaching. Thank you Coach for everything you did for me and all the athletes you worked with. Rest In Peace Coach.

Bernie Reeb

December 23, 2019

Great coach and teacher. Blessed to have coach Patterson at Hayden High.

Jim Turgeon

December 22, 2019

Sorry to hear of Coaches passing. My thoughts and prayers are with him!

John Anguiano

December 22, 2019

Coach Patterson taught and coached me at Holiday Junior high school in the early 70's. The lessons learned from him formed me into the man I am today. I am a better person for having Coach as a friend after Jr. High. I last talked to Coach about 3yrs ago at a DT Lawrence cafe
I remember a red or maroon MG he drove in Jr. High. Coach was passionate about teaching not only in the classroom, but on the football field, basketball court, wrestling mat and oh yes, the track.
Jeanne and the kids, my prayers are with you.
John Anguiano HJHS '74

John Atkisson

December 22, 2019

Oh, Jeanne; I am so, so sorry to hear this news. My heart goes out to you and your family.

Showing 1 - 19 of 19 results

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Memorial Events
for Milton Patterson

Dec

29

Memorial service

2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Arterra

2161 Quail Creek Dr, Lawrence, KS 66044

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