Lt. Col. Alan M. “Bud” Patterson USAF (Ret.)

Lt. Col. Alan M. “Bud” Patterson, USAF (Ret.), passed away on March 31, 2026, in Atwater, California, just days shy of his 92nd birthday.

Born and raised in Washington, Pennsylvania, Bud’s life was defined early by two enduring commitments: love of country and love of family. As a young man, he met his high school sweetheart, Connie, beginning a remarkable love story that would span 71 years of marriage - a partnership admired by all who knew them.

Bud proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1955 to 1975. As a decorated combat veteran of the Vietnam War, he flew with courage and distinction, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross with Oak Leaf Cluster among other honors. His military career took him to duty stations across the country before ultimately bringing him to Atwater, California, following his return from Vietnam in 1970.

Atwater became home in every sense. Bud built the family home where he would live for the next 54 years, creating a place filled with laughter, tradition, and community. He was known for hosting unforgettable Fourth of July celebrations - gatherings that brought together family, friends, and neighbors for decades and became a cherished local tradition.

Outside of his military service and family life, Bud was an accomplished single digit handicap golfer and a longtime member of Merced Country Club. Whether on the golf course, at home, or among friends, he carried himself with warmth, humor, and an unmistakable presence.

Above all, Bud was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Connie; his daughter, Jody Padgett of Granby, Massachusetts; his son, AJ Patterson and his wife Linda of Marin County, California; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Bud loved his country, his family, and most of all, his wife Connie. Their lifelong love stands as a lasting legacy and an inspiration. Truly, he was one of a kind - what a guy.

A Graveside Service & Military Honors will be held on Tuesday, May 5th at 11:00 am at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella, CA. Followed by a Celebration of Life at the Merced Golf and Country Club in Merced, CA at 1:00 pm. 

In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations or memorial contributions be made to Wreaths Across America. 

Sponsoring a Wreath “In Memory Of” -Wreaths Across America allows you to donate a wreath in memory of a fallen hero. These memorial wreaths are not placed on a specific grave, but are included in the nationwide wreath-laying ceremonies.  You can find their link below. 

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