Kenneth Albert Patchan, age 89 years, of Raritan Township, NJ, died on Saturday, December 28, 2019 at the Hunterdon Medical Center, Raritan Township, NJ.

Born in Pittsburgh, PA, son of the late Matthew David and Marie Anna Harlovich, he was raised in Pittsburgh and had lived the majority of his life in Cinnaminson, NJ. He had formerly lived in South Pasadena, FL, prior to moving back to New Jersey to be closer to his three beloved daughters in 2017.

Ken’s career was as a salesman for Encyclopedia Britannica, long before the internet age. This particular job suited him well, as Ken always has a passion for knowledge, something which he always challenged his daughters and grandchildren to strive for: always ask questions and seek out knowledge and the truth wherever it may be.

A people person, Ken loved to create laughter in all situations. He had a “joie de vive” and a passion for life that could not be contained. He lived for the sake of others, and his daughters fondly recall that one of the most important things that their Dad instilled in them was to always live life by doing random acts of kindness for others.

Music held a special place in Ken’s heart, as it helped him to express himself when words failed. His primary instrument was the saxophone, but his gift of music allowed him to play many instruments including the piano, clarinet and flute, all of which he taught his daughters to play as well. A United States Army veteran, he served in the Army band and played for the inauguration of president Dwight D. Eisenhower. He was honorably discharged in 1960 at the rank of Corporal.

Having many hobbies, Ken was an avid golfer having racked up several “holes-in-one” throughout the years. He also enjoyed traveling and experiencing the scenery and beauty of the world. Known to work out and take care of himself physically, he would fondly tell anyone he met that in high school he was voted “Best Looking” in his senior class yearbook.

After moving to the Hunterdon Care Center, Ken was always staying involved in whatever activities happened to be going on. He was particular fond of playing bingo and gin. Additionally, while at the Care Center, he became much more in tune with his spiritual side, attending services by the various clergy who came to the facility.

If anyone asked Ken about his life, he would happily respond that his three daughters were his entire world. He joked that he was honored to be the only guy in his family composed of, “lovely women.” His daughters and their families were so grateful to have had the last two years with their father being so close, which helped to create even more wonderful memories that will always bring smiles to the hearts of all who were involved in making them.

Ken would often quote the following by an unknown author: “When all is said and done, you will be remembered for two things: your passion for life and your compassion for people.” If that is the true measure of a person’s life, then it will be said of Ken Patchan, “Well done good and faithful servant.” His passion and his compassion knew no boundaries and he set an example of “goodness” for all those who were touched by the heart of this amazing soul.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Clementine Patchan, and two siblings, Robert Patchan and Wilma Winters.

Surviving are his daughters and sons-in-law, Matty and Gary Diehl, Clementine and Colin Cameron, and Kenthia and EJ Monroe; his grandchildren, Matthew and his fiancé, Danielle, Michael and his fiancé, Meg, Mark, Daniel, Brittany, Colin Jr., Domenique, Thomas, and Scott and his wife, Cleah; a great granddaughter, Ella Rae; several extended family members; and many dear friends around the world.

Funeral services officiated by Rev. Ben Lee will take place Friday, January 3, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at the Flemington United Methodist Church, 116 Main Street, Flemington, NJ, under the care and direction of Wright & Ford Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 38 State Highway 31, Flemington, NJ.

Burial at Twin Valley Memorial Park, Delmont, PA, will take place at a later date.

Please visit Ken’s permanent memorial site at www.wrightfamily.com to light a memorial candle, leave messages of condolence, share words of comfort and recollection, and post photographs of his life.

For those who wish to honor Ken, memorial contributions may be made to the National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders, 340 South Lemon Avenue, #1740, Walnut, CA 91789 or online by clicking HERE.
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