James Pate Obituary
Publish in a newspaper
He is survived by his wife Karen of 52 years, and his son David Pate of Auburn, Washington.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Pate; mother, Katherine Pate, both of Duncanville, Alabama; his daughter Caroline Pate, of Memphis, Tennessee; and his sister Katherine Dockery, of Carrolliton, Georgia.
He served in the Air Force for 23 years, serving in Vietnam, Thailand, Germany, and many other bases around the country.
After service to his country he worked for the United States Postal Service for 21 years at Mercer Island, Washington and the Bulk Mail Center in Fife, Washington.
James was an Avid PGA fan and loved a good game of golf. He cheered for the Seattle Mariners and Tacoma Rainiers.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Legion.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Pam & Thom Kim
October 17, 2025
We know him as Jake and met the Pate ohana while serving together in the Air Force. We shared our friendship throughout the years and continued into retirement. Although being rather reserved, Jake possessed a sense of humor and a profound love for family.
Our deepest condolences to both Karen and David. Jake is now resting in peace.
Aloha to our buddy, Pam and Thom.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Cheryl LaPlante
October 17, 2025
Our deepest sympathy to Karen and David. Jake will be greatly missed.He was a truly wonderful person. We shared many fun and lovely times together. Sincerely with love, Cheryl and John LaPlante
Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results
11020 S. Tacoma Way, Lakewood, WA 98499
Make a Donation
in James Pate's name
People and places connected with James
Recent Obituaries
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor James Pate's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
