Bryce Stanley Patnode

Bryce Stanley Patnode, 76, lifetime Harborite, machinist, and owner of Franklin Machinery, died Thursday, August 7, 2025, at Fir Lane Care in Shelton, Washington.

Bryce was born on March 26, 1949, in Centralia to Stanley Jerry and Marylin (Neva) Patnode. He graduated from Hoquiam High School in 1968, and then went to Western Washington University in 1974, earning a BA in History, and later an advanced degree in Psychology.

While in high school, he worked with his dad in their family’s mills, and later worked with his brother, Steve, operating Franklin Machinery and acquiring the rights and patterns timber processing equipment, including the historic Sumner Shingle Machine, a staple in the Northwest’s timber industry. Bryce retired about 14 years ago, after delivering equipment in the NW and across the globe, including to Asia and South America. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and a few times went on extended trips to British Columbia, Alaska, and Hawaii.

Bryce had married Susan Hemenway, but they later divorced. He is survived by his son, David Patnode, a daughter-in-law, and four grandchildren; a brother, Steve Patnode, of Aberdeen; and a sister, Carolynn James, of Kirkland, Washington; and a few loyal friends.

A private family burial took place at Mountain View Cemetery in Centralia, Washington, where Bryce was buried next to his father. Please take a moment to share your memories or notes of condolence for the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.