Ken Pate's Obituary
Ken Pate, 68, of Gainesville, FL passed away suddenly and unexpectedly December 12, 2017 at his home. He was predeceased by his parents, Olen B. and Voncille Pate. Ken was born in Popular Bluff, MO on September 30, 1949 and was the oldest of two brothers. He graduated in June of 1967 from P.K. Yonge High School and went on to graduate in 1971 from The University of Florida with a degree in
Finance. Ken joined the Gainesville Police department shortly
thereafter where he served the public in several positions for over twenty years, retiring from there in 1992. He then embarked on a
second career as a registered nurse, eventually retiring from a position in psychiatric medicine at the VA hospital in Gainesville in 2013. Ken married from the former Leah Pursley in June of 1977 and has one son.
Taken too soon, Ken's personal interests were fishing and investing in the stock market. There was no place he would rather be than trolling
the offshore waters of Cedar Key and hauling in the catch of the day. He also shared a great love of animals with his wife. He was a tireless advocate of good health, exercise and an avid weight lifter all his life.
Ken is survived by his wife, Leah of Gainesville, FL; son, Ryan of Phoenix, AZ; daughter-in-law Jenny of Phoenix, AZ; grandchildren, Ira and Fiona and brother, Stephen of Wesley Chapel, FL.
A Celebration of Ken’s life will be held Saturday, December 16, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel of WILLIAMS-THOMAS FUNERAL HOME WESTAREA, 823 NW 143rd Street, Newberry, FL 32669. Family will receive friends 30 minutes prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gainesville Pet Rescue, 5403 S.W. Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608.
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