David N. Paterson
David N. Paterson, age 74, peacefully passed away at his home in Hambden Township, Ohio, on May 26, 2026, his wife and puppy dog Sunshine cuddled at his side.
He was born on May 12, 1952, in Chardon, Ohio, to Blair and Joanne (née Huntington) Paterson.
David was a lifelong resident of the Chardon area. With a natural gift of conversation, he knew many, many people all who quickly became his friends. He was a 1970 graduate of Chardon High School.
On May 5, 1979, he married the love of his life, Alnita Mallula, at Pilgrim Christian Church in Chardon.
David suffered numerous medical challenges and life-threatening events during his life, and it was during one of these that he and Alnita, a new registered nurse, had met. Together they faced these challenges and life itself as “The Paterson Team,” sharing 47 years of love, laughter and devotion.
David was a faithful member of Freedom Alliance Church. He truly loved the Lord and spoke often and freely of this great gift.
David had a true passion for beekeeping, which brought him great joy throughout his life. He found peace and happiness in nature and loved spending time outdoors among his bees, flowers, plants and trees. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and the thrill of riding motorcycles.
Above all, David treasured time spent with his family, especially cheering on his beloved granddaughters at their softball games.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, best friend and soulmate, Alnita Paterson, of Hambden Township; his son, Ian (Ellen) Paterson, of Shalersville, Ohio; his sisters, Leslie (Dennis) Wolcott, of Chardon, Ohio, and Martha (Ernest) Bender, of Chardon; his brother, Bruce (Judy) Paterson, of Chardon; and his cherished grandchildren, Ellie and Kacie Paterson; along with so many dear friends.
David’s life was not extravagant, rather it was very down to earth. He cared deeply about the people God placed in his path and all of God’s creations. Even with all the struggles he faced, he continually thanked the Lord for each day, showing everyone who knew him what true strength is.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 5-7 p.m. May 31, 2026, at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon.
A funeral service celebrating David’s life will be held at 2:30 p.m. June 1, 2026, at the funeral home, with burial to follow at Chardon Municipal Cemetery.
There will be a funeral reception following the service at Hambden Town Hall in Hambden Township.
In honor of David’s caring spirit, the family suggests memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Arrangements are entrusted to The Original Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
