Lynn Eric Patterson, 79, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, April 26, 2026 in The Villages, Florida. His final weeks were spent surrounded by the unwavering love of his closest family members and friends, who cherished every moment by his side.

Lynn passionately dedicated his 53-year career to the life insurance industry and was highly respected in his role as Chief Underwriter for many companies, including Kemper Life, Zurich Life, Chase Life and ING US.

A beloved educator and expert in his field, he served on the MIB Board of Directors (2002-2005), President of the AHOU (2008), became a Certified Fraud Examiner in 2010, and inducted into the AHOU Hall of Fame in 2014.

After graduating from the University of Michigan in 1968 with a degree in Economics, he spent one year at the Detroit College of Law. Lynn then proudly served in the US Army from 1970-1972, followed by four years in reserves, as a First Lieutenant, Infantry Officer, and paratrooper.

Lynn was born January 13, 1947, at Harper Hospital in Detroit, Michigan to his loving parents, Jack Patterson and Mary (Montgomery) Patterson. After spending many years in Michigan and Illinois, he became a resident of The Villages, Florida and seasonal traveler to Schuylerville, New York.

Known for his work ethic, quick wit, humor and kindness, he found happiness in the simple things… cool nights sleeping on the trampoline, listening to Amos and Andy cassette tapes, sipping ice-cold Vernor’s Ginger Ale, and finding solace in the peaceful serenity of the great outdoors.

An avid golfer, tennis and bridge player, he also had many passions; playing ice hockey, traveling, taking cruises, gardening at the farm in New York, running long trails and marathons, fishing in Canada and attending numerous CMA Music Festivals with his kids brought him decades of joy. His love for his son and daughter and his pride of their respective accomplishments was unsurpassed.

His unwavering love for animals, respect for his fellow Veterans and dedication to making the world a better place will not be forgotten. He will be fondly remembered by the many lives he touched and helped along the way.

Lynn is survived by his devoted companion, Debi Gilmore; one son, Michael (Patti) Patterson of Chicago, IL; one daughter, Wendy Patterson of Waukesha, WI; former spouse and mother of his children, Peggy Roberts of Crystal Lake, IL; one sister Barbara (Terry) Cheney of Chapel Hill, TN; two nephews, Christopher Cheney of Irvine, CA and Bryan (Lauren) Cheney of Sydney, AUS; and many cousins. He is proceeded in death by his parents Jack and Mary Patterson; and stepmother Virginia (Chadwick) Patterson.

Lynn’s interment service will be at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Saratoga County, NY with military honors on Friday, August 21, 2026 at 11am EST, located at 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville, NY. Attendees to promptly arrive at gate by 10:45am. Following the ceremony, Lynn’s wish is to have family and friends gather for his Celebration of Life at Calhaven Farm, located at 139 Hanehan Rd., Schuylerville, NY, from 12:30p – 4:30pm EST. Please bring memories to share to celebrate his life and legacy during his final ride back to his “Garden East.” 

Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.