Plowed His Last Field

Dennis J. Patterson age 86, our beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away at his home on Feb. 17, 2026. Dennis was born on Dec. 14,1939 (B.C.) … Dad liked to introduce his birthday as (B.C.) … in Lehi, Utah to J Junior Patterson and Pearl Evenda Tolley.

Dennis grew up on a farm, and as a young boy he enjoyed farming, milking cows, and working in the fields. On the farm is where he found his love for the animals especially horses, this was his favorite hobby. He and his horses were involved in chariot races which produced many state championships.

Dennis met Kathy at one of his first jobs working at a full-service gas station in Riverton, Utah when he saw her, he knew she was the one. They spent the next 67 years together. Together they have four children: Denise (Steven Pierro) of Fruitland, New Mexico; Trudy (Mike Mitchell) of Phoenix, Arizona; Tamra (Scott Ball) of Riverton, Utah and Dennis Patterson (deceased).

Their marriage was solemnized in the Manti LDS Temple in 2016. Dennis and Kathy lived in various places in Utah; they finally settled in Axtell where he lived to the end of his life. He loved all his friends and neighbors in Axtell. Dennis found a piece of ground that he could farm and have his horses, cows and an occasional pig. We can’t forget the dogs; All of His dogs were always named “DOG.”

Dennis was always available to help his neighbors and friends with any kind of tractor work or anything else he could do with his vast knowledge and life experiences. Many speak of his stories he shared while working side by side with Dennis and learning from him.

Dennis had various jobs in his life. He worked at a full- service gas station in Riverton Utah, Chevron Oil Distributor, Mascaro Trucking, and ended his career at Snow College in grounds maintenance.

Dennis is survived by his wife Kathy and his 17 grandchildren, 54 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren, his sister Karen Boyce. Preceded in death by his son Dennis Jay Patterson, great-granddaughter Kate, great-grandson Zander, parents: J. Junior Patterson, Pearl Evenda Tolley Patterson and his sister Barbara Bluemel.

The family would like to send a special thank you to Dr. Adam Jensen and the wonderful staff at hospice for their loving care. The family would also like to thank all those who have helped during this difficult time.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026 from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Axtell LDS ward chapel, 75 West Center Street. Graveside services will follow in the Axtell Cemetery, 12500 South Cemetery Road.

Burial will be under the care of Springer Turner Funeral Homes of Richfield and Salina.