05/22/2024
I never thought I would utter this phrase: Patrick Peterson is no longer with us on Earth.
I met Patrick some 12-13 years ago. Our company, The Standing Wheelchair Company, hired
Patrick on the spot. Over the last 12-13 years, over countless miles and homes and VA
Hospitals and therapy clinics and people we visited; Patrick helped so many disabled folks
stand in the Superstand Standing Wheelchair. As Patrick said --- “Standing in The Superstand
makes you healthier and stronger.” And Patrick was the perfect example of that.
Because we spent so much time together on the road, I learned these truths about Patrick:
Patrick was life-affirming.
Patrick was energetic.
Patrick was polite.
Patrick was gracious.
Patrick was gregarious.
Patrick had a smile a mile long; he was a real charmer.
Patrick loved his mother and father.
Patrick loved his family.
Patrick loved his children.
Patrick loved his wife Rae.
Patrick loved the Bayou Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America --- and he worked
tirelessly to make it better.
Patrick challenged so many disabled people (veterans and non-veterans alike) to make a
difference.
Patrick’s philosophy was simple: “Life goes on. Let’s go on with it.”
Patrick did not let his disability define him.
Patrick was inspirational in both words and deeds.
Patrick and I visited countless places along the Gulf Coast region to try and help people. Some
of these places --- maybe I shouldn’t have been there. Some of these places --- maybe Patrick
shouldn’t have been there. But we never failed people who genuinely wanted to improve their
life by standing in the Superstand Standing Wheelchair.
From Superstand users like Henry to Addie, from Loco to Lee, from Elmer to Trey --- the list
goes on and on of people impacted by Pat’s efforts and beliefs.
If you ever met Patrick Peterson, you know that we have lost a true good fellow. If you never
met Patrick Peterson, well, your life is a bit poorer for it.
Yes, I worked with Patrick Peterson. But Patrick Peterson was also my dear friend. Throughout
the years, we enjoyed so many wonderful lunches at Felix’s Fish Camp --- and the only thing
better than the food at Felix’s were our conversations. I will miss those the most.
I am 74 years old now. I understand unexpected things happen in life --- but I still don’t get it. I
understand that we are all here for some (unknown) prescribed amount of time --- but Patrick
didn’t need to leave this quickly. The world --- now more than ever --- needs a whole bunch of
Patrick Petersons. His untimely passing is simply not fair.
However, after we all expel our grief and tears and sorrow, and at the same time remember all
the good times, life will go on. We will all somehow go on with it.
Just like Patrick always said.
Goodbye, my friend.
Raymond Maczik, President
The Standing Company
Saginaw, Michigan 48601
