William Langdon Patterson, Jr. - 12/29/27 - 2/15/25

Bill was born to William Langdon and Emily (Martin) Patterson in Hanover, NH He tagged along with parents living principally in Lowell, MA; Rochester, NH; and Alton Bay, NH (last family homestead). Bill graduated high school in Rochester, NH and entered the University of NH. The GI bill beckoned, so after completing the first year at UNH, he enlisted in the Army where he spent 18 undistinguished months, and 30 GI Bill months. Then back to UNH he received a BS and MS in chemistry. Then to chemical research at American Cyanamid in Stamford, CT

While there he married Betty Jaquith even though she could beat him at tennis. On to graduate school at Brown University in Providence, RI. In 1960 he emerged from the lab basement with his PhD (Chemistry) to everyone’s, and his, amazement! Daughters Elizabeth (Tina) and twins Karen and Ingrid made their appearance.

In 1960 he and the family moved to Williamstown, MA. Next came research at Sprague Electric (North Adams, 1960-1971). Bill did not survive the big 1971 R&D cut so Bill and Betty diversified in order to stay in Williamstown. They owned and operated the Chimney Mirror Motel (1971-1977). After a splendid year of idleness, Bill became a process engineer: (from R&D to chip factory) at Analog Devices, living in Andover during their eastern MA exile (1978-88).

Next and last came retirement back to Williamstown, with much tennis, skiing and travel (especially to France).

Bill is survived by daughters: Elizabeth (Tina Patterson) Wilson (son-in-law Tim Carter) of Grand Junction, CO, and Karen Patterson of Aurora, CO. And dear friend Joan Gillman-Smith of Brewster, NY, and several nieces and nephews, but not by dear Betty, a great lady to the end (2010) or daughter Ingrid (1976), sister Helen (1999), and sister Barbara (2016).

Bill gave up magic many years ago and became a full-fledged atheist, and he encourages you to donate your body to medical science or be an organ donor. He hopes you will hoist a good brew and think kindly of him. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.