Obituary of Melvin Norman Patton
Melvin (Mel) Norman Patton passed away at the age of 92, on Friday, January 30, 2026. Mel was born in Wayne, Nebraska on April 29, 1933, the son of the late to Norman and Muriel G. (nee Yaggy) Patton. He grew up in Council Grove, KS and was a graduate of Council Grove High School and went on to graduate from University of Kansas.
He was a proud veteran of the United States Army and served in Germany in the Headquarter Second Armored Division Medical Detachment. After his time in the Army, he was employed by Abbott Laboratories for 30 years until retirement.
Mel met the love of his life, Joan Manchester on a blind date and married shortly after in Kansas City, KS on July 5, 1959. Their honeymoon was spent running around the cabin collecting water from the many leaks in the roof. This set the tone for their 61 incredible years of marriage.
He was an avid hunter and fisherman, and he enjoyed taking his family on many camping adventures. He had a passion for all wildlife which he passed on to his kids. While he lived in Joliet, IL and in Springfield, MO, he spent many hours delivering meals for Meals on Wheels. Mel and Joan enjoyed over 30 years of square dancing, golfing, and playing cards with many friends and family. Mel had a long, courageous battle with cancer that he was determined to fight his way.
Mel is survived by his children, Carolyn Tait, Bruce (Joyce) Patton, Cheryl (John) Benac, Jeff (Amber) Patton; grandchildren Jennifer Tait (Jason Carmen), Jeremy (Leanne) Zimmerman, Jeanette (Ronald) Fugger, Lauren Patton, Morgan (Cody) Logston, Dralia (Chris) Tully-Patton and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Duane (Vicki) Patton along with many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his loving wife Joan (nee Manchester) Patton; his parents, Norman and Muriel Patton; twin brother, Marvin Patton; granddaughter, Jessica Tait Romero; great-granddaughter, Alice Zimmerman.
A Celebration of Life for Melvin Norman Patton will be held privately by the family. As it was his request, cremation rites have been accorded and interment will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Council Grove, KS at a later date.
Memorials may be made in his name to Prostate Cancer Fondation (pcf.org) or VFW Post 6049 Morris, IL.
For more information please call 815-942-5040 or visit his Memorial Tribute at
www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
