Terry Patterson, better known as Pat Patterson the Clock Repairman, succumbed peacefully to rest in the arms of our Lord Jesus on the evening of Jan. 1, 2009.

Pat was born in Helena, on April 8, 1940, to Spencer Douglas and Harriette Charlotte Weir Patterson. Pat had a strong work ethic from childhood to retirement age, and there were few tasks beyond his abilities. Pat was multitalented, with skills in art and oil painting, carpentry and refinishing and rebuilding antique furniture. He was a talented photographer, once operating his own photography business in Helena. His main expertise was servicing the community with clock repair for 41 years, beginning at Barnes Jewelry and then establishing his own business as Pat's Clock Repair. Through the years, Pat bought and sold many clocks and antiques, which enabled him to acquire land and build a home. Operating his clock-repair business out of his home allowed him to raise his younger son, Bret, as a single parent.

Pat married Carol Hoodenpyle, of Gooding, Idaho, in 1962. The couple had two children, Pat, currently of Helena, and Bret, currently of Meridian, Idaho. Pat and Carol divorced in 1982.

Pat remarried on Dec. 1, 1996, to Lyla Kay Onstad of Helena. Throughout their 12 years of marriage, Pat and Kay were best friends and soul mates. Pat shared with Kay his fondness for garage sales, and his love of small animals, specifically the squirrels and rabbits that lived around their home. At one time, Pat and Kay shared responsibility for more than 30 loveable pet rabbits.

Pat is survived by his wife, Kay; sons, Pat and Bret; and a brother, Douglas Patterson of Buda, Texas.

Pat always had a strong personal relationship with Jesus, and he knew his blessed home was to be with the Lord. He answered the Lord's calling, knowing he could put life on Earth behind him and be with his purposeful Creator who promises a new life without pain and suffering, and could finally rest in Jesus.

Pat would want to extend a heartfelt thanks to all his friends and loyal clock customers, and wish each a special blessing. A celebration of Pat's life will be held in the spring, to be announced at a later date.