Dayle Patterson

It is with great sadness that the family of Dayle Marie Patterson (Orr) announce she passed away unexpectedly at Mayo Clinic on February 25, 2021, from complications of leukemia after a valiant and lengthy fight. Her husband, Gregg was at her side. Though her body was frail and tired, her spirit was full of grateful appreciation for the endless love and support of family and friends who continued through this most difficult journey with her. Dayle was a warrior with amazing grace. She fought for her life and everything she believed in these past 10 months.

Dayle was born in Bemidji, MN to Arlynn and Wanda Orr on October 20, 1961. After graduating from Blackduck High School, she moved to St. Paul, MN to attend Hamline University. Over the years, Dayle attended several universities, earning advanced degrees and numerous honors. Dayle had a brilliant mind and was a lifelong learner.

Dayle married Gregg Patterson in 1987, and together they enjoyed a wonderful life. They were blessed with two children, whom Dayle loved very much. Dayle was simply the best mom ever and extremely involved in all aspects of their lives. While the kids were growing up, Dayle never missed attending their school and sports events and could often be heard above all others in the bleachers, cheering on the team. Dayle had a quick wit and always a great sense of humor. First and foremost, Dayle was a dedicated wife and mother. She treasured her family and embraced every moment with them.

Dayle began her professional career in Minneapolis, working in the health care field. After moving to Duluth in 1991, she went on to hold executive roles at the Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith & Frederick law firm, Essentia Health, Woodland Hills and Lake Superior Community Health Center (LSCHC). Dayle's final career years were spent at LSCHC, where she led the organization through profound growth - all with the intent of better serving those in our community in need of accessible, quality health care. While her work ethic and career accomplishments were admirable, perhaps her greatest professional strength was in mentoring, guiding, and recognizing the talent of those around her. People were drawn to her for her wisdom, compassion, and genuineness. She served with humility and thoughtfulness which earned her the respect of many during her career. This, in turn, led to her mentoring professionals in the human services field.

Dayle's capacity for new ideas and hard work was indefatigable. The wellspring for her consistently renewed energy sprung from her faith in servant leadership. Dayle believed in working for just causes and strengthening those organizations within which she served.  One of the most unusual features of her strong intellect was the combination of scrupulous attention to detail with an ability always to see the big picture and around the next corner. These qualities made her a master planner. Her work ethic and productivity were phenomenal.

Dayle was a board member of the MN Association of Community Health Centers, the WI Primary Health Care Association and Breakwater Health Network.

Dayle was a member of Peace in Christ Lutheran Church and thoroughly enjoyed serving in the Praise Band. Dayle was a gifted pianist and over the years volunteered her time playing for churches, hospitals, etc.  Dayle enjoyed spending time reading, knitting, going to movies with her daughter, Paige and out to lunch or coffee with friends, and unending handiwork projects for local charities. In recent years, Dayle loved spending time with Gregg at their lake home on Big Sandy Lake, and referred to it as her ‘happy place’.  She especially enjoyed time on their pontoon, while reading and taking in the beautiful nature all around.

Dayle had a deep and true connection with her family and friends. If she had not heard from someone in a while, she would be sure to reach out to find out how they were doing. If someone had a problem, they could always count on Dayle to help them figure things out. She was an exceptional friend to many and a gift to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Dayle’s spirit will live on in all of us.

Dayle was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Ginger Essig. Dayle is survived by her loving husband, Gregg Patterson, daughter, Paige Patterson, son, Reed Patterson, mother-in-law, Yvonne Patterson, and numerous family members and special friends.

Dayle’s family would like to thank the care team at Mayo Clinic Methodist for the exceptional care and compassion they provided Dayle during her lengthy stay.

Visitation will be held on Friday March 5, 2021 from 5PM to 7PM in Dougherty Funeral Home.  A private Celebration of Dayle’s life will be held on Saturday March 6, 2021 at 1PM in Peace in Christ Lutheran Church, 5007 Maple Grove Rd., Hermantown, MN. The event will be available to watch live stream at the Peace in Christ Lutheran Church Facebook page.  Proper covid safety protocol will be observed. Masks required.  Please send Memorials to Lake Superior Community Health Center, 4325 Grand Ave., Duluth, MN 55807, Attn: Will Wilson or Peace in Christ Lutheran Church, 5007 Maple Grove Rd., Hermantown, MN 55811.  Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home. 600 E. 2nd St. Duluth, MN 55805. 218-727-3555.  Please visit www.dfhduluth.com to sign the online guestbook.