Johnney Dale Patton, affectionately known as Johnney, John, JD, JP, or Papa, passed away on February 11, 2025, in Spokane, Washington, at the age of 70.
Born on July 1, 1954, in Los Angeles, California, Johnney lived a life marked by adventure and resilience. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from San Diego State University and pursued a diverse career spanning multiple fields. A proud Vietnam Navy veteran, he formed lifelong bonds with his fellow servicemen. His professional journey included roles as a scuba diving instructor, correctional officer, probation officer, slot machine salesman, construction worker, electrical engineer, computer programmer, and car salesman.
After growing up in the desert of Southern California and returning from Vietnam, Johnney embraced life across many states—including Hawaii, Alabama, Montana, Nevada, Idaho, and Washington—before settling in Spokane for over 20 years.
Johnney found joy in casinos and rode his motorcycle for as long as he was able. In his healthier years, he explored the depths while scuba diving and enjoyed the great outdoors through fishing, hunting, shooting, camping, and horseback riding. A natural problem solver with skilled hands and an open heart, he was always ready to lend a helping hand to those he cared about.
His faith was deeply personal—he believed that God resided within all people and encouraged his children to seek their own spiritual paths. He also honored his native roots through rituals celebrating Mother Earth.
Johnney was a devoted father to Jeremy Patton, Naomi Patton, Faith Patton Soule, and Noah Patton. His grandchildren—Skyler Patton, Shayne Winston, Brooklyn Patton, Alexes Lee, Anyssa Johnson, Cameron Lee, Sawyer Soule, Savannah Soule, Chyanne Soule, Aubriella Soule, and Zarya Patton—adored their Papa. As Big Papa to Richie McGhee-Winston, Shayne "SJ" Winston Jr., Zinaiayah Johnson, and De’janira Winston—his four great-grandchildren—he shared his boundless love across generations. His sister Kimmey Patton also survives him.
He was preceded in death by his parents Richard Dale "Dick" Patton and JoElla Upton Patton; his sister Tammey Patton Gillette; and his daughter Julia-John "JJ" Patton.
A storyteller at heart, Johnney had a way of turning strangers into friends and friends into family. His best companion for many years was his dog Andy Panda; in later years, he found solace in his little buddy Bernie.
Johnney Dale Patton leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through those who cherished him most. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
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