John Henry Patterson, 74

John Henry Patterson died on August 19 at his home in West Tisbury. He was 74.

He grew up on a dairy farm in Framingham, tinkering with machinery and helping his uncle. From an early age, he began working with his hands, taking apart and fixing anything he could find. His curiosity drove him to figure out the mechanisms of engines and how they work.

It was no surprise when John named his company Patterson Unlimited. His unlimited skills included solving mechanical, engineering and structural problems. A jack of all trades and master of many, he liked nothing more than diagnosing and fixing any sort of problem for his fellow man. He generously helped anyone in need of a solution: whether it be a strange car noise or a challenging relationship, he was always there to lend an ear.

John made a living in many businesses: as a master mechanic, welder, gas-fitter, auto body mechanic and more. He owned and operated Keystone Construction, built and restored the pondside housing complex on Duarte’s Pond and helped his wife in all aspects of her sign business.

At age 46, after easily working two lifetimes, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. In his optimistic way, he searched for alternatives and tried many modalities, hoping to find a cure. Instead, he gained longevity. For 27 years, he lived as an inspiration with the disease, defying the odds and persevering with patience, kindness and strength.

John’s interests varied between go-karts, race cars (of which he built several), fighter planes, antique automobiles and anything with an engine. However, his truest passion revolved around Indian motorcycles. His beloved 1926 Indian Chief with sidecar was his favorite possession and he got to ride in it just a few days before he died. The close friends and family who witnessed this stellar event will always remember his arms in the air and the smile on his face as his friend Hap gave him his final ride.

He leaves behind his wife Melissa, daughters Michelle and Aly, his dedicated friends Mim and Scott, three grandchildren, three great- grandchildren and many other true friends and family members.

A celebration of his life will be held in early November.

Lynne Macomber, EDGARTOWN

Beautiful memories of a good man that I have known for 52 years. My love and condolences go out to his family and friends. We all know how fortunate we are to have had John in our lives. Rest in Peace my friend and say hello to Brooksie and Jerry for me.

August 24, 2022 - 5:01pm

Jeff Baker, Prospect Maine

It was always great working with John,riding in his side car with his Indian Chief around the vineyard,and I did a lot of welding with him and his friend. Sorry to hear this Melissa it was so sad to see someone so nice suffer so much,I will always remember you and John.

August 25, 2022 - 5:18am

Diego, Sanford, ME

I came to know John some 30 years ago through my friend, Melissa,who became John's wife. He was caring, thoughtful, and -- in a unique way -- daring. By nature he was a "helping" person. The many people he touched, the efforts he made for community, and his spirit and attitude seemed to give an aura. He was a beautiful example of how life can be lived. I'll miss him greatly.

August 25, 2022 - 10:27am

Robert Skydell, Ronda, Spain

Such sad news today. John was not only a mechanical genius but a legend and outstanding, gentlemanly soul. He faced his years of health challenges with dignity and aplomb. He was even able to correctly diagnose a malfunctioning of his surgically implanted cerebral probe as an electrical wiring short that baffled his doctors. He will be missed by all who were blessed in knowing him. Condolences to Melissa and Family

August 26, 2022 - 9:07am

Mark Hap Bernard , West Tisbury ma

John was one of those rare individuals who led a life of grace,humor and kindness each and every day. If you knew John, your life is better for it.

August 26, 2022 - 9:41am

Jeff Baker, Prospect Maine

Thank-you Hap for giving him his last ride,I can just see the smile John Had riding in the side car,he had to make a lot of adjustments when I first went with him. And my life is better for knowing John and his family.

August 28, 2022 - 8:17pm

Lisa Monahan, Newton, MA

John always managed to keep that twinkle in his eyes, through many a rough patch in these last years especially. But throughout he remained optimistic, generous and curious. Most of all he loved his girls…his daughters and Melissa; steady all the way. We’ll miss John’s magic and are grateful to have known him. xo. Lisa and Andy

August 27, 2022 - 11:29am

Don Klepper-Smith, Hilton Head SC

will keep swimming for you, bud, and will be in touch. You'll always be in my heart. Love you, man. Don

August 27, 2022 - 11:59am

Brian Jolley, Switzerland

I do not know to where he has traveled, but I am quite sure he is already busy solving someone's problem, fixing something, creating something beneficial for others. I will forever remember the time I was thanking him for "wanting to help" - he looked at me funny each time I said 'wanting' and finally said - "Want has nothing to do with it, when I see people using their hands and creating, that enters me and becomes meaningful, and I 'NEED' to help them - 'want' is not part of it" I most certainly know that I will never meet anyone like him again. He is with me every day in the Makerspace where I teach.

August 29, 2022 - 8:10am

Curtis Langer, Aquinnah

Johnny John was an extraordinary talent to be sure, as many have said. But for me what set John apart from all others was his extraordinary generosity and grace. It is no exaggeration to say the John would give you the shirt off his back. Literally. His willingness to help had no bounds- anyone, anytime day or night, rain or shine, freezing or frying. So his candle burnt at both ends brightly. His passing has ripped a huge hole in the fabric of our collective universe sending out ripples of shock and sadness. I am so sad. But I take comfort in this thought- I think Johnny is hanging with Jon Harris and they are laughing their asses off.

August 30, 2022 - 12:34pm

Ben Arnold, Sharon MA

I was lucky to meet John Henry at age 14 when he became my neighbor in Poughkeepsie NY. He was always working multiple projects in his garage and I watched out the window until one day I saw an open wheel formula ford race car sitting in the shop and I screwed up the courage to get a closer look. John welcomed me into the garage and into the world of Patterson Unlimited with the warmth and smile you all know so well. I became an apprentice of sorts over the next decade and learned so many skills that stay with me today. But the 2 lessons that stick the most are how to tackle a big project and see it through - and that there is a lot of joy in passing the skills and knowledge along and just helping people. I do what I can to live to that high standard and when I nail it - I think he'd be proud. RIP Big John. Thanks again for everything. PS: That is a GREAT picture of the man the way he should be remebered!

September 7, 2022 - 12:36pm

Sheryl Brooke, Holbrook, Mass.

I am so sad to learn of John's passing. He was the first of Stephen's friends that I met when John and Roberta first moved to the Vineyard. I was nervous to meet the gang, but John simply said, "if Steve loves you, we all love you."... and truer words were ever spoken. I cannot express how much I have missed John these many years and will cherish the times we all had together. I know the pain you must feel and just know it gets better with time. Hopefully Steve and he are riding Indians across the heavens.

September 12, 2022 - 4:07pm

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John Henry Patterson, 74

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