James Lewis Patten Obituary (1931

Patten, James L, "Jim" "Shake the hand that shook the hand of Mickey Mouse!" September 30, 2001, Jim Patten, 90, of Tucson, AZ, transitioned to eternal life and no doubt announced his arrival with his cheerful smile and trademark greeting. The beloved husband of 60 years of Joyce Patten (nee Schlottman) enjoyed a quiet morning of spiritual reading and contemplation together with his wife--as was their daily routine--before quietly and peacefully making his transition. Jim was born January 1, 1931, New Year's Day, and grew up in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, the son of Wallace F. Patten and Lorinda Patten (nee Jolais). Following high school at Wauwatosa High, Jim attended the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee and then Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, earning a bachelor's degree in History in 1952. Jim went on to serve his country honorably during the Korean War before settling back in Wauwatosa and joining his family's publishing business where his work spanned five decades. He was known to his friends simply as "Big Jim" as much for his stature as his abundant charisma and outgoing personality. He spread his joy for life to those he encountered by offering a playful quip, introducing himself as "Jimmy," delivering some gentle ribbing, or just by ordering a slice of lemon meringue pie. Jim is survived by his true love Joyce (Schlottman) Patten of Tucson, Arizona; son Jim Patten of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin; son and daughter-in-law Andy and Laura (Gurney) Patten of Ferryville, Wisconsin; nephew David Patten of Elkhorn, Wisconsin, and other relatives, grandkids, and friends. The family is celebrating Jim's life with a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers or memorials, the family asks that you remember Jim by contributing to the charity of your choosing.