Linwood R. Patnode Sr. 76, a life long resident of Swanzey died unexpectedly on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 at Cheshire Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Keene.
Linwood was born the son of the late Velma (Eastman) and Victor F. Patnode on January 2, 1938 in Keene. He was educated locally and graduated from Keene High School class of 1957.
On July 10, 1962 he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was trained as a paratrooper and light artillery man with the 82d. Airborne stationed out of Ft. Bragg, N.C. He served his enlistment and was honorably discharged on May 25, 1964 at the rank of Specialist – E4.
On April 17, 2002 he exchanged vows with Cheryl L. Freeh. They were married in a simple service with close family and friends in attendance. The Patnodes have been married for twelve years.
Linwood worked for Home Health Care Services in Keene for four years before retiring in 2009. Prior, Linwood had worked at West Swanzey Woolen Mills, Princess Shoe Company in Keene and Melanson Company in Keene.
Linwood was a man of faith and former member of St. Anthony’s Church in West Swanzey. Linwood had many interests in life. He liked to fish, raise and ride horses. He was a Golden Glove Boxer and former champion for his weight division in 1955. He was a member of the West Swanzey Scarlett Marauders Drum and Bugle Corps. Time was spent traveling the New England and New York regions going to watch various Drum and Bugle Corps competitions.
Mr. Patnode is survived by his wife, Cheryl L. Patnode of Swanzey. He also leaves his three children and there spouses; Linwood R. Patnode Jr. and his wife Barbara of Surry, Gregory Patnode and his wife Debbie – Lee of Keene and Colleen M. Smith and her husband Herbert of Swanzey. Eight grandchildren; Erika Payne, Caitlin Ward, Jenna Strongren, Hanna Patnode, Keith Patnode, Megan Martell and Lillian Smith. He will be missed by his five great grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Linwood is pre deceased by his brother Robert F. Patnode who passed on February 9, 2014.
In keeping with Linwood’s wishes there are no calling hours. Burial will take place on Saturday, June 27, 2015 at 10am. in the family lot at Oak Hill Cemetery, Pine St. West Swanzey with military honors to follow. Donations can be made in memory of Linwood R. Patnode Sr. to: Monadnock Regional High School Football Program, C/O MRHS, 580 Old Homestead Highway, Swanzey, NH. 03446. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home, 46 South Winchester St. Swanzey, NH. 03446. www.cheshirefamilyfuneralhome.com
