Salt Lake City, Utah - After a life filled with traveling, biking, white water rafting, golfing, skiing, practicing medicine (orthopedic surgery) and loving family and friends, Alan E. Patterson, M.D., passed away at the age of 87 on May 16th in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Born to William and Jane Patterson on February 25th, 1938 in Columbus, Ohio, Al grew up amongst a beloved family, including two older brothers, who all were driven by the pursuit of education and hard work.

Al was a lifelong devoted and proud alumna of The Ohio State University, where he completed both his undergraduate studies and medical school. Upon completion of medical school, Al married Deborah Zeller in 1963. They were married for 28 years.

Al served in the Navy where he was stationed in China Lake, California. After completing his service in the Navy, Al continued his medical training at Milwaukee County General Hospital completing a residency in Orthopedic Surgery. After a year practicing at the Wenatchee Valley Clinic, Al and his family moved to Yakima establishing his medical practice and relishing his orthopedics career for over three decades. He served as Chief of Staff for Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital, St. Elizabeth Hospital and was a fellow of the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons. He was a founding member of The Sierra Cascade Trauma Society where he forged many lifelong friendships. In the latter portion of his career, Al accepted the position of Surgical Services Medical Director and sat on the Board of Memorial Hospital.

Al loved traveling to visit relatives in his parents native Northern Ireland as well as New Zealand. He cherished time with his brothers and their families at reunions in Montana, Idaho and the Methow Valley.

Al's greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends. Whether it was a river trip, biking trip, fishing trip, golf trip, ski trip or an orthopedic conference, Al's bag was always packed and ready to go.

Al leaves behind his wife of 31 years Constance (Connie) Patterson; and children Andrew (Diane), Ashley (Tom). Al was a cherished grandfather to Claire Shuel (Matt), Brooke Patterson (fiancé Chancellor Champine) and Shannon Patterson, along with one great grandchild, Kinsley Shuel. Al is also survived by his brother, James Patterson (Michelle). He was preceded in death by his brother William (Donna).

If desired the family suggests donations may be made to the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, The Nature Conservancy, Yakima Greenway or the Alzheimer's Association.

To celebrate Al, please do as Al would; enjoy a good pint, keep your bag packed and ready for adventure and spend time with friends and family.