Mike Patten

Mike Patten, 65, of Paragould, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2022, after a long, heroic battle with cancer with Robin holding his hand, singing him into heaven.

Mike was the son of John and Alma Patten. He graduated from Paragould High School in 1975 and Nashville Diesel College soon after that. He received the ASE certification (Automotive Service Excellence) while working in Colorado Springs. His love of working on cars began at an early age helping his uncle, Cloyce Thompson, on his farm. His passion became his career in the automotive field. His career started at Dudley Horner Motor Company. Then after moving to Colorado Springs, he worked at Red Nolen Cadillac. After moving back to Paragould, he worked at Paragould Light Water and Cable for 31 years until he retired. His after work hours and retirement years were spent restoring and repairing corvettes.

Mike accepted Jesus as his lord and savior at the age of 12 at Wayland Springs church camp where his grandfather, Rev. Marvin Thompson, was the camp leader. Mike was baptized by his grandfather at the camp, which was very special to him.

He married Robin Tripod on January 22, 1977. They had three children. Jeremiah Franklin and Katherine Elaine died shortly after birth. His daughter, Emily, survives. Grandchildren, Davin Jones, Josalyn Jones, Maralynn Weaver, and Gracelin Weaver, were very special to him. He enjoyed giving them rides on the 4-wheeler and watching their sporting events.

Mike, along with his parents, were members of Shiloh United Methodist Church in Paragould.

Mike was also a member of the Fast Glass Corvette Club where he forged many special friendships. He enjoyed the many car shows and trips with club members. His favorite was Eureka Springs Corvette Weekend every October.

We don't know which Mike enjoyed more, the actual racing of cars or repairing all the damage the following week. He raced at George Ray's on many a Sunday afternoon. While in Colorado, he raced on the Pro Rally Circuit, including a race up Pikes Peak. When back in Arkansas, he enjoyed helping his friend, Gary Cothren, race in Mauldin.

Mike enjoyed following Nascar, the Denver Broncos, and the Arkansas Razorbacks. He was sweet enough to watch the St. Louis Cardinals with Robin even though it was not his favorite thing to do.

Mike was a quiet and gentle man with a kind and gentle heart. He had a small chuckle along with a grin that showed his whole heart. His passing leaves deep holes in many hearts.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, John and Alma Patten; grandparents, Rev. Marvin and Eunice Thompson; son, Jeremiah Patten; daughter, Katherine Patten; in-laws, Forrest and Lou Tripod; special uncle and aunt, Cloyce and Beulah Jane Thompson; and special uncles, L.C. T edder and Joe Taylor.

Mike is survived by wife, Robin Tripod Patten; daughter, Emily Patten; grandchildren, Davin Jones, Josalyn Jones, Maralynn Weaver, and Gracelin Weaver; and his special buddy, newfoundland dog, Coal, who enjoyed a McDonald's sausage biscuit every morning with Mike.

A special thanks to all the medical professionals who helped during his long battle with cancer: Drs. Jennifer Velgos, Bob Warner, and David Brotman and staff of Arkansas Methodist Medical Center; Dr. Marc Monte; and Drs. Don Howard and Lynn Wiggins and ICU staff of St. Bernard's Medical Center and his final journey with the St. Bernard's Hospice team.

Visitation will be Thursday, November 17, 2022, at Heath Funeral Home from 5-7 PM. The funeral will be Friday, November 18, 2022, at 11 AM at First United Methodist Church in Paragould with Revs. Dane Womack and Chase Burns officiating. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall. Burial will be private.

The family asks in lieu of flowers consider donations to First United Methodist Church, Arkansas Methodist Medical Center Foundation, St. Bernard's Hospice, or a charity of one's choice.