Arthur Edward “Curly” Patterson passed away peacefully on December 20, 2024, just shy of his 76th birthday. Guided by his core values of faith, family, and work, he lived a full and meaningful life.

On June 20, 1970, Curly married his kindergarten sweetheart, Kathy Hietalati. Together, they shared 54 years of marriage, raising two daughters and five grandchildren. A man of deep faith, Curly was a lifelong member of Lutheran churches, where he expressed his love of music through choir and men’s groups.

Curly’s greatest joy was his family and dogs. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather. He took immense pride in watching his daughters grow into accomplished women and build their own families. He treasured the time spent with his grandchildren—whether fishing, enjoying a Shirley Temple, or watching them pursue their unique interests. His three late golden retrievers (Queenie I, II, and III) and every other dog knew he was always ready to rub them and provide treats.

Born in Duluth, Minnesota, Curly graduated from Duluth Denfeld High School in 1966 and earned a mechanical engineering degree from the University of Minnesota Institute of Technology, later completing the executive leadership program at the University of Texas. His 35-year career at 3M spanned roles in engineering and leadership, including leading laboratories in Germany and Texas, where he left a legacy of innovation and mentorship.

Curly’s life took him across the globe. He embraced each community he lived in through church involvement, work, and his love of hosting BBQs. Known for his storytelling with a Warsteiner, singing, and generosity, he built lasting connections wherever he went. Born and raised in Duluth, MN, Curly later raised his own family in Stillwater, MN; Hamburg, Germany; and Austin, TX. He retired in Rice Lake, WI, before spending the last 14 years in Fountain Hills, AZ.

Curly was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Ruby (Carlsness) Patterson; his mother-in-law, Muriel Morgan; his father-in-law, Nick Hietalati; and his sister-in-law, Mercedes Demo.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy; his daughters, Jackie (Dale) Peterson of Lake Elmo, MN, and Linae (Mike) Haggerty of St. Louis Park, MN; his grandchildren, Sydney Peterson of Salt Lake City, UT, Carson Peterson of Lake Elmo, MN, and Grant, Reese, and Brynn Haggerty of St. Louis Park, MN; his brother, Jeff (Sandy) Patterson of Tehachapi, CA; his sister-in-law, Elaine Edwardson of Virginia, MN; and many extended family members and friends.

The family extends a special thank you to Heidi Carney for her nine years of her faithful and compassionate caregiving and friendship.

A celebration of Curly’s life will be held on January 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church 16150 East El Lago Blvd; Fountain Hills, AZ. Lunch will be served following the service. Live streaming will be available at https://sothaz.com/live.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Curly’s memory to Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church (https://sothaz.com/give) or Hospice of the Valley (https://www.hov.org/donate).

Added:  Curly's Celebration of Life service has been archived at:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0COyDjl8Bwc

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