Joe Clabe Bate, 90, passed away Thursday, Oct. 15, 2015, at his home in Licking.
He was born Dec. 3, 1924, in Gatesville, Texas, son of Otto and Nannie Bates.
He served with the Navy from 1943-’46 during WWII in the South Pacific. He was proud to serve his country. He flew to Washington D.C. and see the WWII memorial as an honor flight attendee.
He worked as an operator engineer local 3, building tunnels for water systems and railroads. He worked on the metro system in Washington D.C. and on the Nevada Test Site. He also worked in Brazil, where he held many positions, including explosive engineer.
He loved sharing and teaching about different cultures. He enjoyed telling stories and jokes. He cherished attending ballgames to watch his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three sons, Don, Larry and Ricky; and two sisters, Bess and Wanda.
Survivors include his wife, Josephine; two daughters, Joanne Akers and Debra Sullins; a son, Danny Ramsrud; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Graveside service with full military honors were Monday, Oct. 19, in at Craddock Cemetery with his grandson, Bobby Sullins, speaking. Services were under direction of Fox Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Craddock Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.foxfh.net.
