John Dale Patterson, 76, of Peoria, IL, passed away Monday, February 1, 2021, at his residence.

He was born May 4, 1944, in Jacksonville, IL, to Horace and Ellen Cavanaugh Patterson.  After graduating from Brown County High School, Dale enlisted in the United States Navy and served proudly.  He attended and graduated from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale in 1971 with an Accounting degree.  He held accounting positions for various construction businesses, most notably controller for Sankey Construction and N.E. Finch.  After his retirement, he moved briefly to Kenosha, WI, before settling in Peoria, IL.

Among his passions were sports (University of Illinois basketball and St. Louis Cardinals), politics, cars, but above all, his country.  He flew the stars and stripes religiously and was very proud of the U.S. military’s might, especially the Naval carriers that he sailed on.  He was always willing to have spirited political dialogue and share his conservative views or anti-Nancy sentiment.  Dale was a well-dressed man and was no stranger to a glass of red wine with a dozen oysters.  A good friend of Dale’s described him as a true self-less gentleman who would ask about others ahead of himself.    

Dale was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Laura and Kathleen.  He is survived by his brother, Bob of Springfield, Il.  So many friends also survive him that he met throughout his travels.  

Due to pandemic restrictions, there will be a celebration of life at a date and place to be determined.  We hope as many friends as possible can make it to tell stories and toast our brother, uncle, cousin, friend.  To share a memory or send a condolence, visit www.peoriafuneral.com.  Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting with cremation arrangements.