William L Patrick's Obituary
May 14, 1933 - August 12, 2024
Sacramento, California - The Pearly Gates opened wide August 12, 2024, when William L Patrick peacefully passed away at age 91.
Bill was adopted by Strange (Pop) and M Reno along with four other siblings; Pete (Dora), Betty (Rod, deceased), Butch (deceased), and Joyce (deceased). Bill also had two stepbrothers, Ray and Tuff, both deceased. The family was tight-knit and despite modest means, they shared everything, even tearing a book into seven pieces so all the children had something to read. To earn money, Dad and Butch would caddy at the Del Paso country club walking an hour each way as they were car-less.
Bill attended Grant Union High School and was a decorated basketball and track and field star. Despite being offered a basketball scholarship to Washington State upon graduation, he chose to stay in Sacramento with his high school sweetheart Lucille B. (Miller) Patrick. Together they had two children, Debby Patrick (deceased) (Monty) and Cathy Patrick. Bill and Lucille were married 65 years until her passing in 2017.
After his high school years, Bill ventured into competitive racing of dirt bikes and speedboats up the American River. He worked at Crystal Creamery for 36 years as a milkman, with an impeccable driving safety record. His early work hours allowed him to be home early to play sports and games with the girls.
Upon retiring at age 60 he immersed himself in his love for the outdoors. Hunting and fishing were his passions, and he was known for securing a deer every hunting season with the help of his buddies and his son-in-law Monty. A lover of dogs and a devoted family man Bill also enjoyed playing golf. Setting up a driving range in his backyard for practice, he excelled at golf and won many of the team Tummy's Sub Shop golf tournaments. His next focus was horseshoes with the same level of commitment and success. Additionally, he assisted his neighbors with mowing lawns, cutting firewood, and providing hayrides for the children in the fall.
In May 2019, he experienced a medical incident that led him to reside in assisted living at Carlton Senior Living, where he thrived and became the ambassador of new residents.
He was a generous and humorous man who was loved by all. He was known for his willingness to help others and will be missed.
Services will be held August 30, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at the Chapel of the Chimes, 4701 Marysville Blvd., Sacramento with a celebration of life thereafter at the American Legion Hall, 6700 8th Street, Rio Linda.
Memorial donations may be made to Homeward Bound Dog Rescue, 7495 Natomas Road, Elverta, CA 95626.
What’s your fondest memory of William?
What’s a lesson you learned from William?
Share a story where William's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with William you’ll never forget.
How did William make you smile?
