Dr. Patton entered Texas State University (formerly Southwest Texas State University) in 1960 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Education degree with a major in health and physical education.  While pursuing a Master of Education degree at Texas State he was hired as their first Head Athletic Trainer.   During this time he studied under Frank Medina, athletic trainer, at the University of Texas. 

In 1969 he earned his Doctor of Education degree with majors in College Teaching and Physical Education from the University of North Texas.   He created the undergraduate athletic training education program in 1971 at Texas State and became its program director. 

In 1976 he moved from Head Athletic Trainer to become the Director of Sports Medicine for the Athletic Department at Texas State.  He served as Director of Sports Medicine and Program Director until May 2005. 

Dr. Patton has served as a Site Visitor for the NATA and evaluated 21 universities.  Additionally he was hired as a consultant for 7 universities as they were creating their undergraduate athletic training education programs. 

Dr. Patton has served as President for the Southwest Athletic Trainers’ Association and was elected to its Hall of Fame in 1995.  He was presented with the Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer award by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association in 2004.  Texas State University named him a Distinguished Alumnus in 2004. He has been designated as a Distinguished Alumnus of the Texas State University College of Education in 2002 and a Distinguished Alumnus of the Health, Physical Education, & Recreation Department in 2001.  He has served two terms as President of the Texas State University Bobcat Club. 

Dr. Patton lives just outside of San Marcos with his wife, Mary Jo.  They have two adult sons, Bob Jr. and Bill.