Marion-Kenneth L. Pate, 93, passed away at 12:38am on Monday, April 14, 2014 at Heartland Regional Medical Center.
Kenneth was born on January 12, 1921 in Marion to Carl and Lillian (Tanner) Pate. He married Patricia Hudgens on March 16, 1946 in Henderson, KY. She preceded him in death on April 20, 2007.
Kenneth was a technical staff Sargent in the US Army serving in Korea and WWII. He received three bronze stars and served in the Asian Pacific Theatre. Kenneth was a retired personnel director in the VA Hospital system. He was a member of 1st United Methodist Church, Marion VFW and Marion Elks. He enjoyed reading and listening to music.
Survivors include:
Daughters:
Patti & Greg Tarrant of Marion
Lauralyn & Jeff Cima of Marion
Grandchildren:
Derek Cima
Devyn Cima
Alyssa Tarrant
Brothers:
Paul & Marvelene Pate
Dale & Marion Pate
Sisters-Evelyn & J.B. Kuykendall
Several nieces and nephews
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Patricia; daughter, Leanne Pate and brother, Oral Pate.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2014 at 11am at Blue Funeral Home in Marion with Rev. Jeff VanDyke officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Military rites will be performed by the Marion VFW post 1301, American Legion Post 147 and the National Guard. Visitation will also be on Thursday from 9am until the time of service at the funeral home.
Memorial donations are suggested to the 1st United Methodist Church and will be accepted at Blue Funeral Home/ 1704 N. Court St/ Marion, IL 62959.