Clarence Patten, Jr.

Clarence “Whitey” T. Patten, Jr. age 87, of Corpus Christi, Texas passed away the morning of Monday, October 13, 2014 at home with his family by his side. He was born May 30, 1927 in Clarksville, Arkansas the son of Clarence T. Patten, Sr. and Bonnie Burke. At an early age his family moved from Oklahoma to Alice, Texas. After graduating from high school in Alice, he went on to serve time in the United States Navy. After his time served in the Navy he returned to Alice, Texas where he began his life long career in the oil field. In 1963 along with his wife Diana Patten, they started an oilfield hotshot company “Whitey’s Hotshot Service” which became “Whitey Patten Transportation” in the early 80’s and is still in business today. For those that knew Whitey, they knew him as a kind, giving, caring and inspiring man to so many. He lived and loved to work all the way up to just a few months before his passing. His one hobby that he loved to do besides work, was his passion for flying. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Diana Patten; son, Donald R. Patten; brother, Dean Patten; sister, Patsy Krietsch. He is survived by his son, Bob (Cheryl) Patten of Corpus Christi, Texas; daughter, Faye Patten of Corpus Christi, Texas; grandchildren, Chris (Lisa) Gallet, Dewayne Patten, Denise Patten, Jana Gallet, Patrick Patten, Bonnie (Robby) Ashby; ten great grandchildren. He is also survived by one brother, Donald (Maxine) Patten of Lamar, Arkansas. Visitation will be on Thursday, October 16, 2014 at Sawyer-George Funeral Home from 5:00 to 9:00 P.M.. Funeral services will be conducted on Friday, October 17, 2014, at 10:00 A.M. at the Arlington Heights Church of Christ with Gene Polvado officiating. Burial will follow in the Robstown Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Patrick Patten, Marcus Hernandez, Josh Surginer, Russell Powers, Rafael Montalvo and Michael Smith. Honorary Pallbearers will be Richard Atkinson, Kelly Krietsch, Bruce Krietsch, Cliff Hunter, Richard Patten and Chris Gallet.