Jim “Coach” Patton, 88

Jim “Coach” Patton, age 88, passed away on January 16, 2025, at Gulf Coast Hospital in Fort Myers, Florida with his wife Deb by his side.

Jim earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Illinois College where he played football, a Master’s Degree from Illinois State University, and served in the military. For 35 years he taught high school physical education and coached football, wrestling, softball, track, and swimming at Woodstock High School, in Woodstock, Illinois. He coached and played semi-pro football for the Rockford Rams and Delevan Red Devils. If Jim was not teaching sailing on Lake Geneva or Crystal Lake during the summer he and Deb could be found traveling nationally, visiting all 50 states, and internationally to Europe, China, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, and over 20 Caribbean Islands.

A sports enthusiast, Jim participated in racquetball, tennis, pickleball, golf, biking, climbing, and found joy in encouraging and teaching others skills and strategies. Jim enjoyed reading historical fiction and biographies and playing board games, Rummikub, Backgammon, and Rummy 500. Jim was a great storyteller and often shared about his teaching, coaching, outdoor adventures, and traveling with enthusiasm and humor.

Jim had a great impact on the lives of his students well beyond the classroom and the competition field. As a mentor, father figure and supporter, he was always there for others when needed with kindness and concern. It was important for Jim to create and sustain life-long friendships.

Former athletes turned life-long friends, shared the impact Coach Patton has had on their lives:

“Behind the sometimes intimidating and imposing exterior, lay one of the most caring, genuine, interesting, and “real” people I’ve ever met.”

“He was the only person I ever called Coach.”

“Coach Patton was a great friend to our family.”

“I will miss his advice.”

“I will miss his storytelling.”

“They don’t make ’em like him anymore.”

“Deb and Jim were quite a team together.”

“We will miss him and the messages he would always send me.”

“Most influential coach/friend I’ve ever had.”

“I’ll forever be grateful for his friendship/mentorship.”

“Some people call him a mentor, friend, and Coach. I call him family.”

“A true influence in my life.”

“You made winners out of us in the athletic arena and in life.”

“Rest in Peace Coach, Hubba-Hubba.”

Jim was inducted into the following Halls of Fame: Springfield High School, Illinois College, Illinois Wrestling, Coaches and Officals’ Association, and Woodstock High School.

Coach Patton was preceded in death by a son, Todd. He is survived by his wife, Deb of 46 years, sons Steve (Alee) Tim (Chrissy) grandson Shane (Cassandra and greatgranddaughter Charnette), granddaughter Mallory (Tony and great-granddaughter Gianna)

At Jim’s request, there will be no services and the interment will be private. He will be missed by those who knew him and loved him. In remembrance, the family encourages sharing a story about Jim, holding him close in your heart, and taking with you something that you learned from his experience and wisdom.

Memorials can be made in support of the athletic programs at Woodstock High School and/or Woodstock North High School. Donations can be sent to: Woodstock High School Athletic Department Attn: Athletic Director Al Baker 501 West South Street Woodstock, Illinois 60098