Donald Archie Pattie was born April 9, 1918 to Donald David Pattie and Elizabeth Woodruff Pattie. Donald spent his childhood in Roscommon, Mich. and Columbus, N.C. He graduated from high school in Baldwin, Mich. in 1935 and received his formal education in civil engineering.

In 1941, he graduated from U.S. Naval flight training and received his wings and commission as an Ensign. He served in all theaters of WWII and his combat decorations included The Navy Cross, The Silver Star, four Distinguished Flying Crosses, six Air Medals, two Presidential Unit Citations and the Navy Unit Citation.

He retired from the Naval service with the rank of commander. After leaving the Naval service, he became a true entrepreneur. His many endeavors included commercial pilot and flight instructor, airport manager, farmer, rancher, sawmill and wood treating plant proprietor and real estate broker.

In retirement he enjoyed his homes at Springdale in Zephyrhills, Florida and in Columbus, N.C. with boyhood friends, sons, daughters and their families, including his sister Mary Trucks and her family. He spent time reflecting on his life experiences and wrote about his observations in a book: “To Cock a Cannon,” as well as a compilation of poems in several volumes of “Poetic Reflections.”

He will be missed by his loving wife of 72 years, Marguerite Paul Pattie, his children Mary Jacobson (Martin), Donald David II (Janice), Michael (Victoria), Richard (Carol), Pamela, nine grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and one great-great- grandchild. He is predeceased by two sons Paul (Chere) and Larry.