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LES THATCHER REMEMBERS PAT PATTERSON

Life just gave me another gut punch as I heard that an Icon, Legend, great worker, brilliant creator, prankster, and long time friend since 1961 has taken the 3 count; Pat Patterson has left the building and has left a huge void in our world!

The poster behind me on the wall is from August 8, 1961 in MT Park Pavilion in New England and the second match on that card was Pat Patterson VS Les Malady (later to be Thatcher) two young guys learning their craft. Pat in his signature purple trunks, robe, & boots as he was a big Killer Kowalski fan, & I in my Kelly green jacket & trunks, black boots with a shamrock on the side pushing my Irish heritage, just a little more then a year in idolizing Buddy Rogers, but only dreaming of being as talented as my idol.

That was one of several times I was lucky to work with Pat. We were on a show in North Adams, Ma. in a stadium used for boxing exhibitions with pros like Sugar Ray Robinson, the problem is boxers don't take bumps and that ring was made of railroad ties & concrete block!!! We each took one bump & decided a stand up match was needed!

Another outdoor show this time in Hyannis, MA promoted by old pro & current referee Fred Bruno, who had the worst cauliflower ears I have ever seen. It had rained earlier and as the ring floor was completely level there were small pockets of water standing in several spots. Pat's entire offense was to get me down near those puddles and in heel fashion slap his hand in those puddles telling the Ref he wasn't counting fast enough & at the same time splashing him with water. I think Pat had more heat with the Ref then with the fans!

We also lived in the same rooming house on Westland, Ave in Boston, along with Alex Medina, Ronnie Dupree, Johnny Mann, Jimmy "Flash" Thomas, Haystacks Muldoon. Terry Garvin, & "Black Magic" Don Kindred. The craziness that went on in that place is a whole book in itself! Pat & his life partner Louie also attended my wedding in 1961.

There is not enough room to list the highlights of Pat's legacy in our business, but it will be said over & over again that he was an amazing worker, and brilliant mind. Go with God my friend & be with your life partner Louie.

Know that you will be remembered in thought and stories like mine above, and respected for what you brought to the game. Remembering with much love & respect!

Les Thatcher

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