The Excelsior Standard, Mar. 3, 2023

Ray L. Patton, 86, of Grain Valley passed away peacefully on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023, at home with loved ones.

Ray was born Aug. 25, 1936, to Dorothy and Vincil Patton in Vibbard.

Ray Patton

Ray joined the U.S. Army in 1953 and served until 1956. During that time, he met his sweetheart, Joan (Westerman), and they were married in September 1956. The couple moved to Excelsior Springs in 1960, where they resided until 2014 and raised two children. During that time, Ray worked for United Super until he went to work for Ford Motor Co. in 1961, retiring in 2001.

He was a Scout Leader for Troop 311 for many years. Ray loved fishing and watching the Chiefs play and win their third Super Bowl. He loved traveling with Joan and taking the grandkids on adventures, and let’s not forget the fish fries!

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Hazel Laverne; and his wife, Joan.

Ray is survived by his son, Kevin (Jennifer) Patton; daughter, Joanna (Mark) Grote; grandchildren, James (Hayley) Riegel, Timothy Patton, Abby (Tom) Spence; great-grandchildren, J.L., Jonathan, Wyatt and Morgen; sisters, Virginia and Doris Gene; brother-in-law, Doyle Schrader Jr. (Joyce) Westerman; and Jackie Klotz; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to noon on Thursday, March 9, at Bross & Spidle Funeral Home in Excelsior Springs, with a funeral service to follow. Ray will be buried at Mount Olivet in Wellington following the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Traditions Health Hospice Care.

Arrangements: Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs. Phone: 816-630-3131