John Dominic Pate

In Loving Memory of John "Juba" Dominic Pate 1955 – 2025 It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of John "Juba" Dominic Pate-a man as tough as the steel beams he worked beneath and as loving as the arms that held his grandchildren. John left this world far too soon, but not without leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. John was a man of grit, conviction, and uncommon loyalty. He was born in 1955, built with broad shoulders and an even broader heart, shaped by hard work, family values, and an unwavering sense of honesty. In a world that often dances around the truth, John walked straight through it. He didn't sugarcoat things-he gave it to you straight, always with your best interest at heart. His honesty wasn't harsh; it was rooted in love, experience, and the belief that people deserved the truth. To describe John as a "hard worker" would be an understatement. He was a titan in the construction industry, a man who poured his sweat into every project and took immense pride in a job well done. Rain or shine, sick or sore, he showed up. Not because he had to, but because that's who he was-reliable, steadfast, the kind of man you could set your watch to. But beyond the job sites and steel-toed boots, John was first and foremost a family man. He was the proud father of four sons: Jim, Matt, Jordan, and Clay Pate. These boys were his heartbeat, his greatest legacy, and his reason for pushing through the long days. To them, he wasn't just a father-he was a hero. He taught them how to throw a football, how to swing a hammer, how to stand tall when life tries to knock you down, and most importantly, how to be men of integrity. He adored his nine grandchildren with a deep and boundless love. Whether it was attending their games, sharing life lessons, or simply sitting quietly beside them, John cherished every moment. He was "Pap" to them-a giant with a gentle touch, a source of strength, stories, and endless bear hugs. John was also a brother, a friend, a mentor, and a second father to many. He coached not only his own boys but also countless other kids in his community-on and off the field. Whether it was football, baseball, or life itself, John had a knack for teaching and an even greater gift for inspiring. He didn't just coach to win games; he coached to build character. His players didn't just walk off the field better athletes-they walked off better people. His own playing days were legendary. At Madonna High School, John earned a reputation as a powerhouse tight end, making plays that are still talked about decades later. But his legacy there extended far beyond the stat sheets-he led with heart, with intensity, and with an undeniable fire that lit up every field he stepped on. John loved the simple pleasures in life. He was at his happiest with a golf club in one hand and a cold Budweiser in the other, preferably with his sons or friends by his side. He found joy in casting a fishing line on a quiet lake, rolling strikes at the bowling alley, or chasing luck at the local casino. These were more than hobbies-they were moments of peace, laughter, and connection. And when it came to football, his blood ran navy and orange. The Chicago Bears were his team, and every Sunday was sacred. Win or lose, he stood by them the same way he stood by the people he loved-without question, without hesitation. Music was another of John's great loves. He was a lifelong fan of Bruce Springsteen, finding in The Boss's lyrics a reflection of his own life-a working man's anthem, filled with sweat, dreams, and raw truth. Like Springsteen, John didn't need fancy words to make an impact. He spoke from the soul, and that was more than enough. He was a man who could fill a room with his laughter, silence a crowd with his stare, and comfort the broken with a few well-placed words. His spirit was infectious, his presence undeniable. You always knew when John was around, and you always felt safer, stronger, better for it. John "Juba" Dominic Pate didn't live a life of half-measures. He gave his all-to his work, to his family, to his friends, and to every person who had the honor of knowing him. He believed in doing things right, even when no one was looking. And he stood by his people, even when it wasn't easy. His absence leaves a void that no words can truly fill. But his legacy-built on love, loyalty, hard work, and honesty-will live on in his sons, in his grandchildren, and in all the lives he touched along the way. He is survived by his sons Jim, Matt, Jordan, and Clay; his cherished nine grandchildren; and a wide circle of family, friends, and former teammates and players who will carry his memory forward. As we say goodbye to John, we find comfort in knowing that he lived his life fully and fiercely. He walked tall. He loved hard. And he never backed down. Rest easy, John. You've earned it. You gave us your all-and then some. Now it's our turn to carry the torch. Forever in our hearts, always on our minds.