Richard Patterson
1944 – April 3, 2011
Richard Patterson was a Canadian drummer who is perhaps best remembered for his time playing in the Esquires, a popular Ottawa band during the 1960s. Formed in 1962, the band also included Bruce Cockburn at the tail end of its run. A year after forming, the band signed with Capitol Records, making them one of the first if not THE first Canadian band to sign with a major label. Over the next few years, the band released such hit records as “Atlantis” and “So Many Other Boys.” In 1964, the band won an RPM award, which was basically a Canadian Grammy in those days. And when major recording artists of the day came to Canada, it was likely that the Esquires opened for them. Such acts included the Beach Boys, the Rolling Stones, and the Dave Clark Five. The band broke up in 1967, but briefly reunited in 1987. Richard Patterson, who had been suffering from a neurological disorder, passed away on April 3, 2011.
Thanks to Gerald Dewan for the assist.
Lytle family-second cousins of Richard were so sorry to hear of his passing.
He and his parents lived on Bronson Ave with his Grandmother Mabel Patterson(Lytle)we used to visit with our Dad and Mom)herb/Eleanor Lytle,brother to Mabel he was a cute little guy although we did not communicate over the years, we kept abreast of him and his love of music.
Helen,Miki, Pat, skippy, Herby and our beloved Mabel who passed away in 2001.
There will be an Ottawa tribute to Richard on June 23, 2011, particulars of which may be found on his Facebook page, which is generally accessible:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Richard-Patterson/104863512932866
Here are some reflections:
http://brucelarochelle.wordpress.com/2011/04/03/richard-patterson-died-today/
http://brucelarochelle.wordpress.com/2011/04/06/richard-patterson-influence-beyond-place-and-time/