Ray E. Pattan

Ray E. Pattan passed away on February 12, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Ray was born on April 28, 1933, in Valentine, Nebraska, and moved to Idaho that same year. His family lived for a time in Buhl before settling in the Round Valley area, including Smiths Ferry, Cascade and Van Wyck before it, and other towns were replaced with Lake Cascade. Ray would move to Emmett, where he would later meet his wife of 63 years, Geraldine.

Ray began his career at the Boise Cascade Mill in Cascade in 1951 before later working at the mill in Emmett. He retired from the mill after 45 years.  In addition to his time at the mill, Ray established his own electrician business in the Emmett area, where he served the community with skill and dedication until his full retirement at the remarkable age of 86. After retirement, Ray still supported his community by serving as a board member for Gem Supply Co-Op for nine years.

In 1958, Ray was drafted into the U.S. Army and spent 13 months stationed in Korea. His service continued when he was called back to duty in 1961 during the Berlin Crisis. 

Beyond his work and service, Ray found great joy in fishing—especially trips to the Oregon Coast—and cherished football season. He particularly enjoyed attending Boise State games with his sons, participating in the family football pool and spending lazy Sundays watching the games with his family.

Everyone that knew Ray could tell you one of the many stories he loved to share.  Whether it was why he earned the nickname "Bear Bait"; how his sergeant ordered him to make the sound effects of machine gun fire for simulation training; growing up in a time of one room school houses or maybe one of the many fishing trip adventures with his longtime friend Sam, who he met on the ship on their way to Korea.

Ray is survived by his loving wife, Geraldine; sons Bob, Ron, Brad, and Cody; eight grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents Muriel and Herman Pattan; brothers Cliff, Howard, Wayne, and George; sisters Rosella and Dorothy; son Randy; and daughter Dorene.

Ray’s legacy is one of hard work, devotion to family, and a love for life’s simple pleasures. His memory will live on through those who knew him.

There will be a viewing on Thursday, February 20th from 6:00-8:00pm at Potter Funeral Home in Emmett.  Graveside service to follow on Friday, February 21st at 1:00pm, Emmett Cemetery (1205 N Washington Ave, Emmett, ID 83617) with a reception to follow at First Baptist Church (126 South Hayes Emmett, Idaho 83617)

*In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Gem County Community Senior Center.

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