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Harry Tate Obituary
Pat was born on April 25, 1923 to John and Mary (nee Mousolf) Tate. He graduated from Oscoda High School and attended Central Michigan University, where he was a member of the basketball team. His studies were interrupted when he was drafted into the U.S. Army and was sent to Europe with the 820th Tank Destroyer Battalion. While serving his country, Pat participated in the Battle of the Bulge. Following his discharge from the army, Pat returned to CMU where he earned his teaching degree in 1950.
On May 19, 1951, Pat married Sondra Pilcher in Detroit, where they both worked. They had two children, Kevin and Kimberly.
In 1953, Harry began his 33-year teaching career at Oscoda High School. In addition to teaching physical education and coaching basketball and baseball, Harry was the athletic director for more than 20 years. He was especially proud of winning Oscoda's first basketball regional championship and seven baseball conference championships.
Following his retirement in 1986, Pat took great pleasure in sharing in the lives of his three grandchildren. He also enjoyed golfing and ice fishing, often sharing his catch with fortunate friends. Pat was a lifelong Detroit Tigers fan and also enjoyed the Pistons and U of M sports.
Pat was preceded in death by his brothers, Edward and Raymond.
He is survived by his wife, Sondra; children Kevin (Jeanne Chatel) and Kimberly (Bob Brzezowski); and three grandchildren, Kelly (Matt Goldberg), Van and Mary.
Friends remember Pat as an exceptionally kind and generous person. Former students remember Mr. Tate as a patient and inspiring mentor. Family will forever cherish the gift of having had this loving husband, father and grandfather in their lives. This true gentleman and hero will be greatly missed.
Cremation has taken place and a memorial will be held at 1 p.m., Oct. 1, at the American Legion.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Harry Tate
Van Tate
September 11, 2011
Grandpa helped introduce me to sports and an active lifestyle. I remember night games in the garage, endless games of catch, and my first introduction to track. His positive, and often humorous outlook on life helped shape me as I grew up.
Regina Schreiner
September 8, 2011
I was blessed to be part of this family life past 43 year as an exchange student guest. Also very blessed to be able to say good bye personally this July. We talked and remembered a lot of things.
Cannot express all the examples he deeply embroided in my life, making me a better person. Me and my kids, Daniel and Marianna worship his memories now and ever, and thank from the heart for the opportunity of being part of his experience of life.
My prayers, my love to Mom Tate, Kevin, Kim and all members of the family Tate.
Douglas Hartline
September 3, 2011
My prayers are with the family
Dana Wright
September 3, 2011
Pat and my dad (Bayard Gum) were good friends. I remember that when they were together there was an awful lot of laughter. Dana Wright
September 3, 2011
Pat and my dad (Bayard Gum) were great friends. I remember that when they were together there was an awful lot of laughter. Dana Wright (Frederick
Kimberly Tate
September 2, 2011
Thank you all for your thoughts, tributes and prayers. My Dad was the best and he will be greatly missed.
J.D. Hock
September 1, 2011
My prayers and thoughts to the entire Tate family during this time. I was blessed to have Mr. Tate as my gym teacher from 1976 -1978. He was a great man and truly will be missed.
J.D. (Joey) Hock
OHS Class of 1982
Jeffrey Klein
September 1, 2011
As a member of the OHS swimming team for a year, I knew Mr. Tate to be a very supportive and kind man. Although I know that he will be missed, the world a better place because of him.
Richard Raesly
September 1, 2011
I graduated in 1976 and had the pleasure to be student of Mr Tate's. What a fine man and wonderful person. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this trying time.
September 1, 2011
When I first met Pat I was very young and he was my swimming teacher. He was very patient and kind. He will be missed.
Gary LeCureux
September 1, 2011
Sondra, my prayers are with you and your family. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My brother, Kevin Staebler, let me know of Pat's passing. I lost my Tom in 1995, so I know how difficult this time is for you. Pat was a good man and I know he will be greatly missed.
Sharon Woltz
Bob Gibson
September 1, 2011
I graduated from Oscoda HS in 1970. Mr. Tate was always gentle, caring and encouraging. He was a wonderful man whom I respected tremendously. Thanks for sharing Mr. Tate with the rest of us. May God bless your family during this time of loss. Bob Gibson
Jim Gallagher
August 31, 2011
I have great memories of "coach" Tate, as he was our Little League Mentor and umpire in the late 1950's and early 1960's. "Coach", I appreciate all the strikes you called for me when pitching for our Tigers. My condolences to his family and many friends!!
August 31, 2011
I had the great joy of having Pat Tate as my 2nd "dad". Pat and Sondra (and Kim & Kevin) came into my life when I needed them most and made a lasting impression on me. I have always referred to them as my family. I never got tired of listening to Pat tell his stories - whether it was sports, fishing or the military. He always made me smile and greeted me and my family with open arms. "Dad" you will be missed, but never forgotten. Love, Becky Matthews-Tate-Minor
Mary Tate
August 31, 2011
Rest in Peace Grandpa, my singing partner and fellow chocolate ice cream lover. Life wont be the same without your hugs, snow suits, chocolate bars, sports watching, blueberry pancakes, sprite, poker, and especially your love.
Kelly Tate
August 31, 2011
We are all so lucky to have had him in our lives. He was a genuinely good and joyful person, and we all miss him so much. It's hard to imagine life without Grandpa.
Kit Silver
August 31, 2011
Sondra and family, May peace and God's Grace be with all of you during this time. Pat was a good guy, teacher,coach, and colleague.
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