Robert Patch Passes at 79
Robert was born on June 27th, 1941 to Howard E. Patch and Madelene (Maxfield) Patch in Lebanon, Maine. After attending East Rochester, NH and Lebanon, ME schools, Robert began working at his father’s garage in Lebanon. Over the years Robert worked various jobs including (but not limited to), shoe shop, construction – completing route 89 in NH, eventually ending up at State Line Garage for several years. He and his wife Mary opened R&M Garage in 1983. Robert was well known to be a fair and honest mechanic. A trait much appreciated by all who frequented the garage. After Robert “retired” he went to work at the Lebanon transfer station.
Starting in his late teens, Robert enjoyed stock car racing, frequenting tracks such as Lee, Star, Hudson, Arundel, even starting at the old Dover raceway. It was a serious hobby that lasted into the late 1980’s leading to many wins and trophies….and a few fights in the early years. 😊 This “hobby” produced lifelong friendships and memories.
Robert’s other passion was restoring classic cars. His pride and joy being a 1955 Ford Thunderbird. A car that turned heads and started many a conversation. Robert & Mary attended car shows and brought home just a “few” trophies.
Robert’s ultimate passion was his family and enjoying quality time with his friends.
Robert is survived by Mary, his wife of 38 years. Sons, Robert M. Patch, Jr and his wife Shelly of Lebanon, ME; Howard M. Patch and his wife Judy, of Farmington, NH; Joseph G. Patch and his wife Kimberly of Lebanon, ME and daughter Tammy M. Riley of Springvale, ME.
He is also survived by brothers, Armand Patch and his wife Sharon of Lebanon, ME; Michael Patch and his longtime partner Jill Courter, of Milton Mills, NH; sisters, Mary Jones of East Rochester, NH and Sylvia Arcoutte and husband Ron of Farmington, NH. Sisters-in-law, Dee Patch of Florida and Lorraine Patch of Lebanon, ME. Brother-in-law, Ernest Lizotte of Lebanon, ME. Also numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Robert was predeceased by his son, Scott M. Patch; brothers, Howard “Sonny” Patch and Ronal Patch; sisters, Rose Beety and Ethel Lizotte.
A celebration of life is planned for Sunday, June 27th 2021 from 12-4pm at Robert “Bobby” Patch, Jr’s residence at 16 Old Ryefield Rd., Lebanon, ME. Front field will be mowed to accommodate any and all classic (or non-classic) cars. Please bring a dish to share, chairs, pop-ups welcome, BYOB. But most of all bring your stories and laughter. Additional information can be found on facebook event page – https://fb.me/e/d3a7VxU93 (Robert M. Patch, Sr’s Celebration of Life).
Celebration of LIfe
Sunday, June 27, 2021
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
16 Old Ryefield Rd
Lebanon, ME 04027