Santa Clara, Utah - Our hearts are full as we mourn and celebrate the life of our mother and grandmother who passed away surrounded by her loved ones on November 5, 2011.
Alta Mae Hafen - Patterson was born July 29, 1927 in Neola, Utah to John Jesse and Wealthy May Bacon Nielsen. Growing up in St. George as a child she made many lifelong friends. She attended Dixie High School and continued her education at Dixie College graduating in 1947.
Alta married her high school sweetheart Daniel Roy Hafen on February 22, 1947. They were later sealed in the St. George Temple on June 10, 1965. They moved to Santa Clara where they spent 43 wonderful years together before Dan passed away on March 7, 1991.
Alta enjoyed life to the fullest always having a positive disposition. Alta loved singing, cooking, and going to club with friends. Alta took pride in taking care of her house and her children.
Alta and Dan spent summers in Pinto, where they taught the children the importance of hard work, traditions, and family fun. She taught her children and grandchildren that making time for family gatherings and family traditions keeps your family together. There wasn't a holiday or special occasion when her family wasn't by her side.
Alta was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She served in many various callings and served as a temple worker for years.
Alta found love again and married Delmar (Dutch) Patterson on January 1, 1994. They enjoyed traveling together across the country visiting family and friends.
Alta was loved by all who came across her. Your love, your example, and your legacy have touched our lives for generations. We love you Alta Mae.
Alta was preceded in death by her parents, husband Dan, brother Weldon, sister Opal, and grandson David.
Alta is survived by her husband Delmar Patterson, sisters Venice Westman and Floy Harper, her children: Dana (Scott) Cannon, Roy (Cindy) Hafen, Bradley (Mary Jo) Hafen, Tonna (Elwin) Prince, stepchildren Jerry Patterson, Judy Rowe, Joyce Camp, and Jody (Joe) Sandoval, 33 grandchildren, and 52 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 12, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the Santa Clara LDS 1 ^st Ward Chapel, 3040 West Santa Clara Drive, Santa Clara, Utah. Visitations will be held Friday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd. and on Saturday, prior to services, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Chapel. Interment will follow at the Santa Clara Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221.