Dean Leroy Patch

Dean Leroy Patch, Topeka, was 99 years of age when he passed away June 12, 2013 at Midland Hospice House. Born in Topeka, Kansas, May 19, 1914, the son of William and Arabella Patch, he attended Topeka schools, graduating from Topeka High School in 1933.

He worked for Capper Publications until entering the US Navy in 1943, where he was trained at Wright Jr. College and Oklahoma State University, in electronics. He served as an instructor at Naval & Technical Training Center in Corpus Christi, Texas, until his discharge in 1946. Dean remained in the Naval Reserves until recalled in 1950 when he served with Squadron VF874 as an electronics instructor until discharged in 1952.

Dean was an electrician and member of IBEW Local 226 since 1941, until retirement in 1977. Dean enjoyed flying, receiving a pilot's license in 1953. He was a life-long tennis and table tennis player. He also spent many hours ballroom dancing at the Moose Lodge and the VFW. Dean was a member of Masonic Lodge #225 and Scottish Rite, Moose Lodge and American Legion Post #400.

Married to Faye Cook in 1935, she preceded him in death in 2005. Dean is survived by close friend, Bernice Hejtmanek; his son, Gary, of Seminole, FL; grandsons, David, FL; and Mark, Melbourne, Australia; and great granddaughter Sadie, Australia.

Mr. Patch will lie in state from 12:00 noon until 5:00 p.m. Sunday at the Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. A memorial service will be held at funeral home 3:00 p.m. Monday June 17, 2013 with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to VFW Post #1650, c/o Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel, 1321 W. 10th Avenue. Topeka, KS 66604.