The late Jan-Mikael Patterson, also known as JM Patterson, passed away peacefully early this morning, June 25, 2024. Born on May 23, 1977, Jan-Mikael was a beloved teacher at Saint Michaels Indian School and a respected reporter for the Navajo Times. He was 47 years old at the time of his passing.
Jan-Mikael’s brother, Jeremaine Patterson, announced the sad news on Facebook, expressing his deep sorrow and pride for his brother. "You gave us 47 years of happiness, and I am so very proud of you," Jeremaine wrote. "I will see you on the other side, and I know you were proud of us."
The Patterson family has received an outpouring of support from friends and the community. Renée Mitchell commented, "My sincere condolences," while Tonia Navakuku shared, "He was such a great person and always helped my kids out with no hesitation. He will be missed." Numerous others, including Jose Perez, Andrew Wilson, and Khristina Jarvis, have also extended their sympathies.
Jan-Mikael’s mother, Sarah Patterson, has organized a fundraiser to help cover the funeral costs. The GoFundMe campaign, titled "Honoring JanMikael: Help Cover Funeral Costs," aims to raise $10,000. As of now, the fundraiser has received $520 from five donations. Contributors like Kiara Hardy and Dot Teso have generously supported the cause.
Sarah Patterson, in her heartfelt plea, described her son’s impact on the community and his passions. "Jan enjoyed being a teacher and meeting many people through his job. He was a fan of the Diamondbacks and the Arizona Cardinals," she wrote. "He left us peacefully."
The community’s response highlights the far-reaching influence Jan-Mikael had on those around him and underscores the collective effort to support the family in their time of need.
Note:This post was written and edited by Paisley Baker, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.