Stevenson & Sons Funeral Homes

Serving families in the Miles City, Forsyth, Lame Deer, Broadus, Circle, Jordan and Terry areas for three generations.

For Immediate Help Call
Miles City: 406-232-4457 — Forsyth: 406-346-2311

In Memory Of

Ronald “Tater” Patch, age 69, of Billings formerly of Miles City

July 17, 1954 – September 5, 2023

With broken hearts we announce the death of Ronald “Tater” Craig Patch on September 5, 2023 at the age of 69.

Tater was born on July 17, 1954 to James “Scrap Iron” and Frieda Irene Patch in Miles City. He attended school in Miles City and graduated in the Class of 73.  He was a very athletic CCDHS Cowboy and in the summer he pitched for the Maverick Dirty Dozen +1 baseball team. He received a scholarship to play football for Eastern Montana College.

His career included working concrete for both Hollowell and Unique Concrete, putting up billboard signs for Lamar Signs, and was seasonal for Montana Department of Transportation and Simplot Grower Solutions.

Tater believed that there were four important elements to life. First and foremost was his fierce love for his family. Staying in touch and helping out was number one. He became a second parent figure to his niece and nephews in Billings.  No matter what was going on in his life he always made a point to call his family to check in.  He treasured family get togethers and always lent a hand when family needed it. We sure will miss hearing our phones ring with caller id “Tater”. A ritual on Sundays was to drive over to St. Vincent’s chapel and pray for family and friends.

Secondly was his army of friends. He was very blessed with lifelong friends who he considered family.  Friends have shared the following regarding Tater “If you can find a better loyal, honest, hardworking, dedicated to family and friends, then whoever it is would have to be Tater’s twin”. “You are not only one of the most honest person I’ve ever met, you are genuine and a gentleman.” Thank you to his friends by creating memories by attending NFL football games, fishing on the Stillwater, and boating on the Yellow Tail.

Thirdly, of course, were sports. Fall was his favorite time of year as football started. He drove home to support the CCDHS Cowboys and cheered on many Billings teams. Black and yellow ran through his veins as he was the #1 Steeler fan.  Other favorite teams were the MSU Bobcats and the New York Yankees.  Highlights were a trip to New York with Spud, Brady, and Jason to watch the Yankees in honor of Brandon. He also enjoyed watching spring baseball in Arizona.

Lastly was food. He made numerous calls to Peanuts for her famous lasagna, Debbie for her deviled eggs, and Nancey’s banana bread. His cupboards were filled with disposable containers he “expected” to be filled when he left dinners at family and friends’ homes.

He and God had a plan. Tate definitely enjoyed life to its fullest. God saw that he was tired and in pain so he reunited Tater with his heavenly family. Welcoming him home were his mom and dad, Brandon, Mike $, Aunt Velma and Uncle Buster, numerous aunts and uncles, and his close friend Mike Dorfler.

It brings comfort to his family and friends that one day we will see him again face to face- sister Peanuts Money, Mike (Nancey) Patch, Spud (Debbie) Patch, niece Katie Patch , nephews  Brady (Alayna) Patch and Jason (Cara) Patch. He was very proud of his great nephews Cooper and Braydon Patch and great niece Vivian Mae Patch, and his second family- the Muri’s.

Tater was an amazing person who was loved immensely and will be forever missed-not forgotten.  We love you Tater and thank you for the treasured memories.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to a charity of one’s choice in honor of Tater.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 1 pm at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Custer County Cemetery. Following the graveside services a luncheon will be held at The Parlor, 1806 Main St. Miles City, MT 59301. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.co

Service Schedule

Celebration of Life

1:00 p.m.

Saturday September 23, 2023

Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home

1717 Main Street

Miles City, MT 59301

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Interment

Saturday September 23, 2023

Custer County Cemetery

Miles City, MT 59301

View map

Luncheon

Following Interment

Saturday September 23, 2023

The Parlor

1806 Main St.

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Service Schedule

Celebration of Life

1:00 p.m.

Saturday September 23, 2023

Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home

1717 Main Street

Miles City, MT 59301

View map

Interment

Saturday September 23, 2023

Custer County Cemetery

Miles City, MT 59301

View map

Luncheon

Following Interment

Saturday September 23, 2023

The Parlor

1806 Main St.

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

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Memories

Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.

  2. Great guy in high school and I’m sure he followed that throughout his life! Way, way to young to lose this classmate! My deepest condolences! Carl

  5. So sorry to hear of Tate’s passing. Such an integral part of our family’s lives. As I wipe tears from eyes, I think of all the great memories that Tate brought to all of us, and how much he will be missed. My condolences to the entire Patch family, and you will all be in our thoughts and prayers. RIP Tater.

  6. We lost another great Patch . Tater was one of my favorite cousins. He will be missed immensely. RIP my brother and we will meet again.
    Tom Patch

  7. I send prayers to the Patch family. I still see that big smile that Tater had and hopefully he and Jimmy Buffett are right now signing “Cheeseburger in Paradise”. I remember those many nights when we were all much younger and Tater would breakout and start signing this song as loud as he could. We were sure he didn’t know the verses, only the chorus. RIP Ron

  8. So sorry to hear of Tate’s passing. I remember being at your folks’ home many times after coming to Miles, Tate was the quiet one with a shy smile & laugh. I can still see him when I’d speak to him & that shy smile would come through. He was a sweet kid, my condolences to all the Patch family. Prayers to you all.
    Sue & Scott Jens

  10. Oh my gosh!! I am so so sorry to hear of the passing of Tater! I have so many wonderful childhood memories with the Patch kids living across the street from our family back in the day. Lots of games of kick ball in the empty field next to our house. Please know we are thinking of all of you during this sad time and know you are all in our hearts and thoughts.

  12. So sorry to hear about Tater, my condolences to the patch family. I used to see him from time to time at the grocery store in Billings, always such a sweet soul.

  14. Sorry to hear of Tates passing. Thoroughly enjoyed the “Patch boys ( Tate and Spud) in Miles City baseball. Tate was always a happy guy and kept everyone laughing! One of the enjoyable times of my life. Condolences to the Patch families.

  16. Lots of great memories of Tater!
    Always so kind and everyone!

    Our thoughts and prayers!

    Jay and Denise Harvey

  17. Oh no!! So sad to hear this. I remember Tats & I were in Deb & Dave Shore’s wedding & walked together as party of the wedding party. He was always so friendly & fun. Rest in Peace, Tator!!

  18. So, so sorry to hear of Tate’s passing. So many wonderful memories of Tate from our younger years. Our hearts, prayers and sympathy go out to Diane, Mike, Spud and families. This awesome brother, uncle, cousin and friend will be so very much missed. RIP Tater, RIP.

  19. Herb and I are so sad to hear this. We have a big soft spot in our hearts for him. He is gone much too soon. Sending our thoughts and prayers.
    Herb and Mary Kron

  20. I am so so sorry to hear about Tater. Many great memories of him and the Patch family. Sending condolences and prayers to his family. God bless.

    Julie Martin-Lake

  21. My sincerest sympathies to all of the Patch family. He always had a big smile for those he met. So many memories that will help you all during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

  23. Tater was the kindest of them all. I’m so sad. I pray God is comforting all of his family and friends at this time.

  25. Spud Mike and Patch family you are in my thoughts and prayers during the difficult times ahead. Tator was an individual who always brought joy and happiness to all who were fortunate to be in his company. I can’t begin to tell you of the many decades of pleasant memories of Tator. Tator God Bless you in heaven. I’m so sorry to see you leave us. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

  26. My condolences to Tater’s family and friends. May you find comfort in the happy memories.

  27. Tator was a dear friend since middle school, the NFL season is upon us and likely the Steelers have no idea they lost one of their most devoted fans.
    A true gentleman and he will be sadly missed😔

  28. DD12+1 MR CRAWFORD, BERT, PAULLY GARDNER AND NOW TATE ⚾️⚾️😔😢RON ‘TATER’ PATCH OUTSTANDING ATHLETE, PITCHER BUT MORE OUTSTANDING AS A FRIEND, TEAM MATE N SIMPLY A GREAT HUMAN BEING😔
    TATE, YOU ALWAYS CALLED ME ALICE LONG THE ALLEY CAT ⚾️⚾️I LOVED IT ⚾️YOU WERE AND ARE A FANTASTIC MAN⚾️HARD WORKING, LOYAL N HONEST VERY DEDICATED TO FRIENDS N FAMILY ⚾️ALL YOU HAVE TO SAY IS THE ‘PATCH’ IN MILES CITY N THAT MEANS GREAT FAMILY LEGACY ⚾️TATE I LOVE YA WITH ALL MY COTTON PICKIN HEART 👍⚾️❤️MIKE’ ALICE>ALLEY CAT’ LONG TEAM MATE DD12+1 1971 STATE LEGION CHAMPS⚾️

  29. Another classmate is gone far too soon. I remember Tater’s outstanding athletic abilities – I was always in AWE!
    We send our sincerest condolences to each of Tater’s family members.

  30. Dear Patch Family,
    So sorry to hear of Tate’s passing, I have fond memories of he and Chris talking about things they did together in high school and sports they played together. Tater was such a great, kind man with the sweetest smile. Rest in peace Tate.
    My sympathy to all his family and friends.

  34. Mike, Spud, Diane, and Families, Our condolences on your loss of Tater. So many great years of softball fun and times to remember. Tate was a friend to all.You are all in our thoughts and prayers.His friendship and kindness will always be remembered.

  35. Memories of a kind classmate. I will always remember the hilarious version of learning to ski that he told in speech class.

  36. Just now, as I opened obituary page and saw Tater’s name, it took my breath away. My sincerest condolences to the Patch families. Gone too soon!

  37. My sincere condolences to all of Ron’s friends and family. I have so many memories of him from my childhood. RIP, Tater!

  38. Please accept my condolences to the Patch family. Tater had a beautiful smile and laugh. If I remember correctly he and Deb married and added more Patch males to this earth. Couldn’t ask for a nicer, salt-of-the-earth family.

    Joan Schmidt Eddy Bunke

  40. Mike, Diane and Spud. So sorry to hear of Tater’s passing. He was one of a kind who touched the lives of everyone who knew him. His smile and demeanor are still crystal clear in my mind. Rest in peace Tate.

  41. I apologize to the Patch family. I can’t edit my original message. Mary Rose Bovee was
    kind enough to clarify my memory. Spud and Deb married . Again, my most sincere apology and condolences. Tater had the sweetest smile and demeanor!

    Joan Bunke

  42. Mike, Diane and Spud

    So sorry to hear the loss of Tater. Being able to be in the Patch house so often was great fun and knowing Tate made it even more fun. Tatter had a great sense of humor and always supportive especially in Baseball. We will miss you my friend.

    Geoff Durst

  43. Tate the Skate: We probably wouldn’t have been state class A basketball champs without you, Tate. Showing us what true athleticism looks like with tremendous heart and soul. You and your family have left quite a legacy and for all we are truly grateful. The Lion Sleeps Tonight. Rest In Peace Tate

  44. Those wild Patch boys lived across the street from us and were my youngest sister and brothers classmates. It’s hard to believe Tater is gone. Perhaps he is laughing it up with Maria and Frank. All gone too soon! Makes me very sad. May you all find peace in your memories and love for a sweet kid. Cooky Emerson

  45. Mike, Spud and families,
    I only had the honor to meet your brother Tater a couple of times. Always a smile, firm handshake and a kind word. The Patch men I do know are all good people and I know Tater was the same as those of you, that I do know well. I am sorry to hear that you lost a brother, uncle and best friend. I send my sincere and deepest condolences during this time of loss. My God comfort you now and always with the best of memories.

  46. My heart goes out to the Patch family. Tater became a dear friend one BHS. Needless to say we would run into each other in Billings on occasion.
    Sending love, light and healing strength on a prayer. He was a tender soul.

  49. Mike, Spud, Diane and families so very sorry to hear of Tates passing. He was always a quiet, honorable man! I was a very lucky person to call him fiend! I know the many memories I had with him will remain with me always! I hope your many memories of him offer some condelences for you as well! RIP Ron!

  50. I remember Math class in 8th grade. Tater was always goofing around in there before class started. I never forgot his cool name. Kent Lynch and I used to hang around with him occasionally. Though I barely knew Tater, I would have enjoyed him today as an adult from the sound of all the comments. Sorry for your loss in the family.

  52. So sorry to read of Taters passing.
    He was always very kind and funny
    May wonderful memories light your path of dark sadness at this time.

  53. I got to know Tater while attending eastern montana college.It seemed like Miles City and Butte boys were a lot alike .I feel so lucky to call Tater my friend.I know for sure I am a better person because Tate was in my life. I will miss him so much but i will have such cherished memories of our college days that will never fade. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

  54. So sorry to hear about Tate – I worked with him at Myhre advertising as well as Lamar Outdoor one of the best guys I’ve ever met Rest in peace my friend

  57. I lived briefly next door to Mrs. Patch. The family was always so kind to me and my daughter.

  58. Sad news. I last visited with Tater at Mile Bertrand’s funeral. He was always a delight, and still had that spark even 45 years after high school. My sympathies to the Patch family.

  59. So sorry to hear of Taters passing. He was a sweet person and will be missed. Prayers to all of you.
    Anita Scheeler

  60. To Mike, Spud and patch family. So sorry for your loss. May God comfort all of you at this time. He will be greatly missed. By all.

  61. The Patch family
    I am so sorry to hear of Taters passing.
    You are in my thoughts an prayers ,

  62. Patch family…my sympathy and condolences in the passing of Tater. In our younger years, we lived in the same neighborhood and we would often play “war” or “cowboys and Indians” with another bunch of kids. When the Patch boys were coming to play, one little guy said, ‘here come the Apache kids’. We were a group of about 10-12 kids and lots of good memories of those play days. RIP Tater…you were special!

  63. All my love and sympathy to the Patch family! Our families have been friends starting with our dads and all of the kids! We will keep Tater and all his family and all the cousins in our prayers. Love to you all.

  64. Our condolences to the Patch Family. There were many good families from Miles City in my day and the Patch Family was one of them. What a caring, funny guy Tater was. We were fortunate to have a growing relationship with Tater through out the years. We will surely miss our telephone visits with Tater. We will miss but never forget Tater.

    Dennis and Mary Jean (Minkoff) Shober

  65. My heart goes out to the Patch family in this huge loss. I’m sure you have many happy memories to comfort you in the days and weeks to come, but wanted to let you know you have many hugs coming your way.

  66. Mike, Diane, Spud, we are all very sad to hear of Tate’s passing. All of you were part of our family for our entire life and our hearts go out to all of you. He was one of a kind and a great fiend. Rest in Peace my friend.

  67. We were so very sorry to hear of Tater’s passing. We have many very fond memories of our much earlier days. He was always so kind with a smile that would always put one on your face.

  68. Tater was my best friend from 3rd grade into high school. I regret not having stayed in touch over the years. He was a fine friend and I think of him often. Mike, Diane and Spud so sorry for your loss.

  69. I used to run into Tater here in Billings every now and again, maybe at a local football game or at a local sports bar on saturday or sunday watching football, and a few bonus visits because he would be with Mike $.. Although I didnt know him as well as most he was always very kind, always had a good story to tell. My condolences to your family

  70. Sorry to hear of Taters passing. Just a really genuine guy that was always humble and down to earth. Tater was also a tremendous competitor as an athlete. Condolences to the entire Patch family.

  72. Our Condolences to the Patch family. Tatar was always a good friend to all he knew and friendly with all he visited with. We will never forget his smile and spirit and will miss him a lot.
    Rest in peace Tate!

  73. Sending my heartfelt condolences to the Patch family. Tater was a kind, caring individual and a top notch classmate. So very saddened to hear of his passing.

  74. Sending condolences to the Patch families during this difficult time. Keeping all of u in my thoughts and prayers.

  75. Sorry to hear about the passing of Tater. I remember Spud and Tater from the legion baseball days. When I heard somebody was from Miles City, I always asked how the boy’s were doing. Paul McClure (Billings Royals 1971)

  76. Sorry to hear of Tater’s passing. I got to know Tater at the Bucking Horse Sale through my good friends Bob & Jim Edwards. I remember one Saturday late afternoon at the BHS when Tater was going to visit his mother and asked me to go along. I did and had a very enjoyable time visiting with them, obviously a close family. RIP Tate.

  78. I love you, Tater Man. You were one of my dear friends. I know the lights from the heavens are going to bring you right in. You’re with me always.
    Love,
    Chunky

  79. I will always have the utmost respect for Tater – he was my Billings room mate for six good years. He was a brother to me in many ways, and one of the dearest, most decent persons that I’ve ever met. I will have more to say at his funeral services, but just wanted to pay tribute to one of the finest persons to ever cross my life. We will cross paths again!!

  80. My condolences to the Patch family.
    Tate and I met in college and have been buddies ever since. Through all of life’s ups and downs Tate never wavered in his friendship. He was always concerned with what was going on in you and your family’s lives. I can’t think of one time Tate made it about himself.
    RIP my friend.

  81. I have known you for many years my friend. Although we didn’t spent enough time together. It was very apparent a truer friend could not be found.

  82. So very sorry to learn of Tater’s passing. My sincere condolences to all of his family and friends. Rest In Peace Tater.

  84. One of a kind person…prayers to family and friends!!
    Your welcome GOD…you got another great one!!!

  85. Didn’t know him personally but remember his great athletic abilities his name rang among Custer county with all his athletic abilities. Couldn’t help but no tater by all his achievements. Then always got a kick out of (tarter) Patch. RIP

  86. Spud and family, I’m so sorry to hear of Tater’s passing. He was such a nice man. My sincere condolences and please know you’re in my prayers. God bless and I hope your memories and love from friends help you through this difficult time.

  87. Thinking of the gathering today, I did not know him like so many of you. My heart aches for all that loved him! I was just in awe, as a younger student, of he and his brothers, and a myriad of others that were very gifted athletically !
    Praying for the peace of Christ over you all!

  88. Mike, my heartfelt condolences to you and your family on the loss of your brother. I wish I could have known him better for he was clearly loved. I could tell from reading the obituary which was just a wonderful tribute to him! It is so hard to lose a sibling so my heart goes out to you. With sympathy, Cindy Gustafson

  89. What a helluva guy and great friend. Always enjoyed going out for a few when I came thru Billings. So many great memories, and feel honored to be considered a friend. RIP Tate.. you will be missed.

  90. Diane, Mike and Spud,
    Tater was a good man, a caring brother and a fun loving uncle and great uncle. His memory will live on in all of you and everyone that knew and loved him.
    Rest in Peace my friend

  91. Our sincere sympathy on Tate’s passing. Please know you have been in our thoughts and prayers. He was one of a kind and always a gentleman with that friendly personality, smiling eyes, and ear to ear grin. Watched a lot of Sponsor softball games where Tate excelled. Sorry we couldn’t make the service. Glenn helping coach our grandsons football and they had a game. Scrape iron and my parents were good friends. May they all rest in peace and we must treasure the good times.

  92. I had the pleasure of being a teacher at CCDHS when Tate was in school, I will never forget his radiant smile, and his laugh, which always announced his arrival. What a competitor he was in all sports. He was also a member of the state championship basketball team in 1973. Kindness was such an important part of his demeanor, he always greeted me with how are you today Mr. Jens with that smile. The Lord is s now graced with that smile that will shine in heaven forever. My condolences to all the patch family for your loss of Tate. You are now at peace my young friend..

  93. Mike, Spud, and Diane. I have such fond memories pall of you, Buster and Velma, and your parents. What a great family.
    Tater was a very special man, with a great smile, personality, and sense of humor. As I can see from the number of letters of condolence,Tate was well loved. I have not seen him in over twenty years but he was a good man.
    God must be pleased to welcome Tater to heaven. He was a gift to us all
    God bless you and your families.
    God will be pl

  95. Tater was a legendary childhood friend: the toughest guy in the eighth grade, Willie Lanier’s biggest fan. He showed up one day wanting to use my swimming pool. Later there was a gang of us — Tater, me, dave shore, todd rowen, scott hoskinson, david anderson — we were all free to roam the streets and terrorize the neighborhoods. Then we grew old and went our separate ways.
    But Tater, the great Tater Patch. The first time I called I said, “Is Ronald there?” and his mom said, “Who?”

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