Eugene "Ray" Paterson

Eugene “Ray” Paterson (Pops), 72, of Dayton, Iowa passed away on Sunday, April 25, 2021 at the Paula J. Hospice House in Fort Dodge, Iowa.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents Louis and Lavone Kennedy as well as his adoptive parents, Milton and Marcella Paterson; and Cathy Lynn Nagel his wife of 25 years

Ray is survived by his daughter, Krissy Paterson of Lehigh; son A.J. Paterson of Dayton; four grandchildren, Tyrine, Laython, Aniah, and Arabella; adopted great grandson, Saylix; and his beloved dog Mayzee Ann.

Ray was born on February 2, 1949, in Iowa City, the elder to his twin sister, Jean Graffunder of Lehigh. As a young boy he joined Boy Scout troop #103 of Storm Lake where he achieved the 2nd highest rank of life. In May of 1968, he went on to graduate from Storm Lake High School. Many summers Ray attended Camp Sunnyside where he learned ceramics and woodworking skills. A devoted husband and father, he supported his family by working as a cashier for several different convenience stores in Nashville, Tennessee.

Know to many as “Pops” in his spare time, Ray enjoyed scrappin with his buddy and riding motorcycles. As an avid John Wayne fan, he enjoyed watching Duke movies. His hobbies included woodworking, minor automotive repairs and also researching and writing his family tree.

His life was full of hardships and many obstacles however, being a determined and dedicated man, he overcame them all. He will be greatly missed by all who shared in his life.

Please come and share a memory or story at Ray’s Celebration of Life on May 15, 2021 at the Dayton Community Center from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.