Ret. Colonel Richard Maney Patterson

Ret. Colonel Richard 'Dick' Maney Patterson, 91, of McCook, NE, passed away Sunday, July 19, 2015, at Hillcrest Nursing Center in McCook. Richard was born June 9, 1924, to Col. Earl S. and Adeline Patterson in Glendale, CA and was the great-grandson of Tennessee Governor Cannon Maney. He grew up in California and attended prep school at Mercersburg Academy in Hagerstown, PA, his father's alma mater. While at Mercersburg he received a swimming scholarship to Yale University but as W.W.II had broken out, he joined the US Army Air Corps instead. Richard trained as an aviation cadet and began flight training. By the age of 19 he was flying B-29's from his station in Guam into Japan, serving in the air war in the South Pacific. At the completion of his W.W.II service, Richard returned home to California and remained in the Air Force Reserves. He attended Cal State Polytechnic in San Luis Obispo where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in animal science and reproductive physiology. Following graduation Richard began working as ranch manager for several large ranches, creating breeding plans and animal genetics. At the outbreak of the Korean War, Richard was called back to fly in action. His military decorations included the Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, two Purple Hearts and other honors. Having earned the rank of Colonel, he later served as Chief of Staff of NORAD in Colorado Springs, CO. Returning again to civilian life, Richard continued to work in ranch risk management in his company Ranch America and served a term as President of the Colorado Cattleman's Association. In 1987 Richard married Sheryl Van Gundy at Denver, CO. They worked and traveled together throughout Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and Costa Rica. They had many happy adventures together. Richard leaves behind his loving wife, Sheryl. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters. Cremation was chosen. Cards of condolence may be sent to 1005 Norris Ave, McCook, NE 69001. Condolences may also be shared at odeanchapel.com. Odean Colonial Chapel in North Platte, NE is in charge of arrangements.