| Graduation Year | Faculty |
| Date of Passing | Aug 23, 2011 |
| About | Beloved family member, educator and World War II veteran, Harry Patrick Tate of Oscoda, died Aug. 23, 2011 at St. Joseph's Hospital in Tawas City. 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. |
