John Tyler Van Patten

Jan. 10, 1946 – Sept. 6, 2016

We have lost our beloved father, brother, uncle and friend; but John’s unique and gentle spirit will always be with us. He was a joyful person who shared his wisdom, knowledge and humor generously. Johnny loved and appreciated people and was loved and appreciated in return. Before there was Google there was Johnny, a font of information and arcania regarding history, geography, music, film, philosophy, literature, sports and culture. We just never asked him to balance our checkbook.

Johnny was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., where he attended Erasmus Hall. He worked most of his career for the New York Daily News and was proud of his membership in the International Brotherhood of Printers and Pressmen.

He moved to Whidbey in 1985, and was embraced by a wonderful community of friends and was appreciated for his intelligence, curiosity, humor and deep faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Eleanor Van Patten; his brother Dick Van Patten; and his nephew Casey King. He is survived by his daughter Stephanie Favata; sisters Joyce Van Patten and Marjorie Montaperto; and brothers Byron and Timothy Van Patten. He is also survived by many adoring nieces and nephews and adopted nieces and nephews and a most loving group of friends. He will be in our hearts forever.

We will have a potluck celebration of his life at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17 at Bayview Hall.