Ernest Paterson

Ernest F. (Ernie) Paterson of Wallowa passed away Jan. 18 at Wallowa Memorial Hospital. Ernie was born to Ernest and Hester (Nicky) Paterson on June 5, 1941, in Forest Grove, Ore. He was the second of four children; Tom, (Ernie), Jerry and Ava.

He attended school in Forest Grove until his junior year in high school. He excelled in high school football and was a lifelong football fan. His family moved to La Grande and Ernie graduated from La Grande High School in 1959. He graduated from Eastern Oregon University with a degree in education. He took several advanced courses at the University of Oregon and Oregon State University, where he became an avid Beavers fan. He earned a master’s degree in counseling. His career was spent in several locations, all in Oregon, as a high school counselor and sometimes coach. He stayed in touch with many of his former students over the years, being proud to call them friends. He spent most summers working for the Oregon State Forestry in the Fire Division, where he made many more friends.

Ernie married Linda Thomas, who gave him two beautiful daughters: Kirsten Paterson Klym and Darsa Paterson Morrow. Ernie and Linda later divorced. He was the proud grandfather of Joseph and Keaton Klym, as well as Max, Toby and Hatcher Morrow. He spent the last 18 years fishing, hunting and camping with the love of his life, Nancy Hall.

Ernie loved to talk about his many river trips and the good friends and family he shared them with. He could always be found surrounded by fun people. He had many fond memories of his outdoor adventures. He was a collector of vintage fishing tackle, and he loved the hunt of finding the next perfect piece. He was a great lover of all music.

Ernie was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Nicky, and younger brother Jerry. He is survived by daughters Kirsten (husband Brian) Klym; Darsa (husband J.J.) Morrow; grandsons Joseph and Keaton Klym, and Max, Toby and Hatcher Morrow; loving partner Nancy Hall; brother Tom (wife Sri) Paterson; sister Ava (husband Don) Carter; many nieces and nephews and a multitude of friends.

Ernie requested no services. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wallowa Valley Health Care Foundation in his memory.