Richard Patana

Obituary of Richard Patana Houghton Richard "Dick" Patana, 62, a summer resident of Rocky Road Shores Rd., Houghton, and well known entertainer was killed in an automobile accident near Alberta, MI in Baraga County last Monday September 8, 2003. He was born in Detroit, on October 11, 1940, a son of the late Nestor and Sofie (Niemi) Patana. During the summer months he resided at Rocky Road Shores Rd. Houghton, and during the winter months resided in Florida. He was employed as an Iron Worker for many years, by local #783. He also loved music and for 27 years was the leader of a local band called the "Rhythm Rockers." After the Band disbanded he entertained people in various other bands, among which was the "Weekend Cowboy Band", and with the help of his wife he also put on a one man show called the Dick Patana Review for several years. He also enjoyed performing in Houghton County's Benefit Shows; the E.B. Holman Show and the Chassell School Country Western Show. On June 16, 1962, he was joined in marriage to the former Sandra L. Pihlaja. He was a member of the Ahmed Temple of Marquette, and the Ishpeming Shriners. He also was a member of the Wyandotte Hills Golf League. Surviving are: his Wife 3 Sons: Michael R. Patana of Houghton & Formerly of Melbourne, Florida, Glen A. (Marne) Patana of Holly Springs, N.C., Brian S. Patana of Raleigh, N.C.; 1 Brother; John (Brenda) Patana of Rapid River; 2 Sisters: Kristiin (Eino) Miilu of Mass City, MI, Florence (Richard) Hodges of Laurium; 2 Aunts: Aunie Niemi of Ontonagon, Agnes Patana of Lake Linden; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. As requested by the family and because of his wife's physical condition the funeral will be held Wednesday, September 17, 2003, at 4 P.M. in Messiah Lutheran Church, 305 W. Magnetic Street, Marquette, with Revs. Nancy Amacher & Chuck Bylkas to officiate. Private burial will be held Thursday, September 18, 2003, at the Oskar Cemetery in Houghton County. Friends may call from 1 P.M. until time of services at the church on Wednesday. The Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Hancock, is serving the family. To send flowers to the family of Richard Patana, please visit Tribute Store