Lorene Bales Patterson, whose love, courage and Strength were an inspiration to her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, passed away at age 87 on May 9, 2012. She is survived by two of her three children, James (Missy) Patterson of Ellettsville, In. and Shirley Patterson (Bob) York of Scottsdale, Az.; five grandchildren, Rebecca Murphy, Seth Patterson, Kristin Schneider, Allison Harvey and Michael Scott; great grandchildren,, Madeline Murphy and Jacob Murphy; four of her seven siblings, Della (Ralph) Welch of Ca., Sarah Krainess of Ca., Gladys Hodges of Evansville, and Ruth Bradford of Il.; and many other family and friends too numerous to mention. Lorene was born to William and Martha Bales on July 9, 1924 in Waynesville, Missouri. In 1947 Lorene married Robert Louis Patterson, who preceded her in death in 1995. Together they settled and raised their children, Jim and Shirley, in Washington, In. One infant daughter, Mary Lynn, passed away in 1962. Family life was filled with many wonderful times, including weekly family card games and popcorn on Sunday night, waterskiing adventures, camping trips, backyard games, and minding the family garden. Lorene was an avid and talented quilter, a wonderful cook (especially known for her pies), an active member and volunteer in the Washington Baptist Church and later the Maple Grove Christian Church in Ellettsville, and supportive and wise friend to many to the many who knew her. During the last four years, Lorene became an inspiration to others, including her physicians and nurses, for her positive and courageous living while dealing with esophageal cancer. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 12, at 10:00 AM, at St. John Catholic Cemetery in Washington, IN, where Lorene will be laid to rest alongside her husband and daughter, with Pastor Rick Amerine officiating. In lieu of Flowers, the family asked that donations be made to Bloomington Hospice House c/o Bloomington Hospital Foundation 405 North Rogers St. Bloomington, In. 47404. Lorene's strength of faith and character, and wit and wisdom will be missed by many. Ed Lee Mortuary in Washington is handling arrangements.