Robert "Tom" Patterson

Robert “Tom” Patterson, age 71 of Shakopee, MN, with great faith, went to be with the Lord in Heaven on October 21, 2025. Born on Thanksgiving Day in 1953, he put his mom in the hospital shortly after she put the turkey in the oven.

Making wise, beneficial decisions his whole life. Tom began in farming, transitioning into a successful businessman in both trucking and property investments.

Tom was the husband, son, brother, father, and grandfather who always put his own needs last. His joy was in caring for his family. He was the rock, the go-to guy who knew how to and did take care of everything. Tom felt it was essential to pass on his knowledge of caring for cars and households to his children and grandchildren. He consistently reminded them to “check your tires” and taught them skills in plumbing, electrical work, and lawn care. The older grandchildren never left his house without a full tank of gas and a car wash. The younger ones were dished out many hugs along with sweet treats and instructions to hide the evidence.

Tom had many interesting friends both in Shakopee and Fort Myers. When not meeting at Wampach’s for coffee, he would often visit during his walks or while sitting in his lawn chair in front of his home. We will miss the news updates.

Known for his quick wit and sense of humor, Tom could also deliver what family referred to as “a Tom Patterson ass chewing!”

Left behind to mourn the loss are his true love and wife of 50 years, Janice Roles Patterson; daughter, Leah Jean Patterson; son, Mitchell (Ashley) Patterson; grandchildren, Max, Natalie, and Micah Tieben, Mona and Cassius Patterson; mom, Mary Jean (Ladd) Patterson; sister, Trudy (Bill) Harper; brother, Joel Patterson; sisters-in-law, Mary Roles (Mike), Louise Roles (Bruce) Plagman; many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his dad Bob “Poppy” Patterson; brother, Daniel Patterson; infant sister, Christine Patterson; father and mother-in-law, Mike and Polly Roles; and sister-in-law, Suzanne Roles Brown.

Tom’s legacy lives on not only through his family but through the land he worked and preserved. The farms he managed, cared for, and passed down stand as a lasting reminder of his vision, his grit, and his belief in creating something that endures beyond himself. His faith, work ethic, and stewardship of the land will continue to guide generations to come.

Per Tom’s wishes a private family service will be held.