Over the years working in the media sector, Gordon Patterson worked with many clients, industry associations and communicators.
Lively personality and exceptional knowledge of industry
Gordon was invited to be on the media jury in Cannes in 2007 which he eagerly accepted. On a jury of 25 media specialists from around the world, Gordon’s lively personality and exceptional knowledge of the industry made him stand out and was an instrumental voice in the jury room that led to the best winning work being selected for that year. He was a very popular member of the jury and I’m sure all his fellow jurors remember him with deep respect, fondness and great memories.
On behalf of Cannes Lions, we wish his family and friends all the very best over this extremely sad time but with the knowledge that he touched a lot of lives for the better and will be hugely missed around the world. – Lisa Berlin, Jury Director, Cannes Lions
Focus on fairness
Gordon Patterson has been more than a media partner to the Standard Bank marketing team. We have been blessed to work with someone of his experience and calibre. He went out of his way to play an active role in driving positive action in the media industry to benefit us all. His focus on fairness is something that we appreciated.
Gordon will be remembered for his can–do, get on with it attitude. Nothing was ever too much trouble. Even with his depth of experience he approached going through the basics with fresh excitement. Gordon’s commitment to our business and our challenges have been exemplary. Not only has he been a passionate member of our team but he was fun to work with, with an excellent sense of humour.
He always treated people with respect, which is something we will always remember about him. His collaborative nature really made a difference across all our agency partnerships and diverse teams. Our hearts go out to his wife Sonja and his friends and family. We will miss Gordon so much, both as a friend and a colleague. – Standard Bank
Influence the world
Dear Gordon
No words can describe the empty space your passing will leave on many lives, an entire industry and the people who love you. In my life, you were always a constant, a rock, a mentor and true friend. Your endless capacity for the uplifting of others & for the adventure of life left a mark on everyone who’s lives you touched. I will never forget your empathy, compassion and true friendship over the past 30 years and just know that the world is not a better place without you in it. My love and heart goes out to your beautiful wife Sonja and your family.
I know you will never rest in peace and can only imagine that you continue to influence the world wherever you are.
I will miss you dearly Gordon. – Lauren Stevens, SAB
An invaluable asset to the advertising and communications profession
We mourn the loss of a shining light, a captain of industry, our dear friend and highly respected colleague… our sincere condolences are extended to Sonja and the Patterson family.
We are deeply saddened by this tragic and senseless event which has unexpectedly taken the life of a remarkable professional, true doyen, husband and father. Gordon was an invaluable asset to the advertising and communications profession at large. He contributed so much to self-regulation, research, education and training.
His involvement in the overall business of media and advertising was unrivalled. Gordon was the ultimate professional and ‘gave back’ so generously. His vested interest in education and the development of the youth, an example of his devotion to his chosen profession.
Gordon was a tireless champion. An inspiration to all those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and the media and advertising professions.
May his soul rest in peace. – Odette van der Haar,On behalf of the Association for Communication and Advertising and the AAA School of Advertising
A man of integrity
I’m heartbroken and devastated. Gordon was the epitome of a gentleman. A man of integrity. He was always willing to help and always available when anyone needed advice. I’ll remember him very fondly. Our status meetings over the years, while discussing the latest industry issues, were always interjected with an enthusiastic showcase of Gordon’s latest dive expedition. He was passionate about diving, photography and of course the industry but most of all about his beautiful wife.
He always struck me as a true campaigner for media rights, always promoting integrity in the media industry and he never minced his words, which were sometimes mingled with that dry Irish humour. Those are just some reasons why we loved him and will miss him so very much. He was one of a kind, not easily forgotten. RIP Gordon. – Chirene Campbell, Owlhurst Communications
A rare kind of gentleman
Gordon was a rare kind of gentleman who built his magnetic, unique character around the meticulous acquisition of facts, education and a relentless thirst for knowledge, achievement and growth. Not just for himself, those he connected with but the corporations under his wise command.
His heightened academic pedigree gently complimented by his love for animals, nature, community and success.
Having handled Gordon’s professional profile over the years, it was constantly apparent how respected and valued he’s opinions and time was to countless professionals in the industry. He thrived on righting wrong, seeking justice, sharing wisdom and raising the playing field on all levels.
Humble in his self–perception, Gordon always made time in a harried schedule to assist where his help was called upon. He was one of the fairest, most dignified, natural entrepreneurial spirits I had the pleasure of working with. He was more than a client, a leader, a doyen; he went out of his way to be a friend and trusted advisor whenever I sought his counsel.
What a massive loss for us all. My deepest condolences to the love of his life Sonja, his family and loved ones. Gordon was a great man; his presence will be sorely missed. – Charlene Dennis, BizNews Connect
