Brian Thomas Patterson

Brian Thomas Patterson, age 85, of Grand Rapids, Michigan passed away on August 11, 2026. He was born in Grand Rapids on April 13, 1941. Brian graduated from Catholic Central high school and received an accounting degree from Davenport College. He was married to Arlene on June 19, 1965. Brian served in the US Navy and was active duty at sea on the USS Franklin D Roosevelt aircraft carrier. He spent 40 years in the food business. The first 36 years he was a food broker and later served as president and CEO of Conrad-Patterson and Associates Food Brokerage. He was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church since 1968. In retirement, he enjoyed participating in various church ministries, especially as a eucharistic minister and teaching faith formation. He also had a great affection for serving at God’s Kitchen and as a driver for Hope Lodge. Brian was a passionate Notre Dame fan. He loved Notre Dame football and enjoyed going to games as often as possible. He loved coffee – he drank and enjoyed it constantly!! Brian loved to spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren and attending their various events. He is preceded in death by his parents, Morris and Eleanor Patterson; daughter, Tami VanderWall; and beloved wife, Arlene Patterson. Brian is survived by his sons, Shawn Patterson and Brad Patterson (Faythe); grandchildren, Gracie, Micah, and Sophie Patterson; siblings, Steve Patterson (Sherry), Denny Patterson (Nancy), and Jan Charles; son-in-law, Jim VanderWall (Diane); in-laws, Peggy Patterson, Peggy Patterson, and Greg DeKubber; and many nieces and nephews.