For more than six decades, Ernest “Ernie” Patterson has been a constant presence, a steady leader, and a quiet force behind the success of the Kiwanis Club of Los Gatos. In 2025, his extraordinary service was recognized with the Bert Shoemaker Award; an honor given to a Kiwanian whose enthusiasm, dedication, and quiet inspiration make the organization more meaningful for others.
Ernie joined the club in December 1960. His commitment is remarkable not only for its longevity, but for its consistency. Over 65 years, Ernie has maintained perfect attendance, even joining meetings via Zoom while hospitalized during the pandemic. But numbers alone don’t tell the full story. Ernie isn’t just present, he’s engaged, invested, and deeply valued by everyone around him.
Known affectionately as the “Dad” of the club, Ernie is the anchor that keeps things steady. He leads with calm wisdom, thoughtful perspective, and a dry sense of humor that often appears at just the right moment. Whether he’s offering guidance during a board meeting or greeting someone with his signature “Good morning” – no matter the hour – Ernie creates a sense of belonging for all.
His leadership has helped shape the very foundation of the club. A four-time Club President and Treasurer for more than 45 years, Ernie has played a critical role in ensuring both strong governance and long-term sustainability. Even after recently passing the treasurer role to a newer member, he continues to serve on the board, offering insight and mentorship rooted in decades of experience.
Ernie’s influence extends far beyond titles. He leads by example: never demanding, never seeking recognition, and never speaking unkindly of others. New members and emerging leaders look to him not for instruction, but for inspiration. He sets a standard of service, reliability, and integrity that defines what it truly means to be a Kiwanian.
Together with his wife, Rosalie, also a devoted Kiwanian, Ernie has helped cultivate a culture of connection, generosity, and service. From hosting board meetings in their home to supporting the Cal-Nev-Ha Children’s Fund through annual giving, they embody the spirit of giving back. Their partnership has strengthened not only their club, but the broader Kiwanis community.
Through Ernie’s steady guidance, the Kiwanis Club of Los Gatos has grown to sponsor 11 Service Leadership Programs and built lasting relationships throughout the community. The club is a trusted partner for local events, initiatives, and organizations; an impact made possible in large part by the example Ernie set over many years.
Perhaps most importantly, Ernie defines what it means to be reliable. He attends every meeting, supports every event, and never lets his fellow members down. In doing so, he has helped shape a culture where service is not just a commitment, it’s a promise.
To celebrate his 60th year of service, the club honored him with a special luncheon filled with stories, laughter, and appreciation. It was a fitting tribute to someone who has spent a lifetime uplifting others.
The Bert Shoemaker Award recognizes those who inspire through action, humility, and heart. Ernie Patterson embodies all these qualities – and then some!
His legacy isn’t just measured in years of service, but in the people he has inspired, the community he has strengthened, and the example he continues to set every single day.