Tony Bill Tate

Tony Bill Tate of Sagle, Idaho passed away on July 24, 2015 at the age of fifty eight, at North Idaho Hospice House in Couer d'Alene, Idaho. He courageously battled cancer for many years. Tony inspired all who knew him with his determination and positive outlook. He never lost his sense of humor throughout his battle. Tony was born on August 15, 1956 in Fort Worth, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Bryan Tate, and Bernice Westmoreland Tate. He is survived by his wife, Linda Mackey Tate. Sons, Tyler Tate and fiancé, Kara Malley, of Post Falls Idaho, Austin Tate and wife Cheyenne Tate of Post Falls, Idaho, Grandsons, Tracen Tate, and Caden Malley of Post Falls, Idaho, and Granddaughter, Memphis Tate of Post Falls, Idaho, Brother Scott Tate and his wife Peggy of Kingwood, Texas, Sister, Hilda Tate Mears and her husband Don of Kingwood Texas, and sister, Elizabeth Tate of Humble, Texas. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Tony grew up in Garland, Texas. He married Linda, his high school sweetheart there in 1975, and later relocated to the Houston area where he attended Harris County Police Academy. He was employed as a police officer in the Houston area for many years. In 1996, he moved to Houston County Lake in East Texas where Tony was able to enjoy his passion for fishing and hunting. He was employed at the local hospital in Crockett as Director of Plant Operations until 2003. Tony, at the age of twelve, developed a love for the beautiful state of Idaho after visiting there and working summers on his uncle's ranch. He was afforded his dream to return there in 2003 when he accepted the position as Director of Plant Operations at Northwest Specialty Hospital in Post Falls, Idaho where he continued to work until his retirement in 2011. Tony treasured time with his family and the fellowship of friends. He loved cooking and grilling, and developed his own "secret recipe" for barbecue sauce that few people were ever lucky enough to get from him! He was known by friends and family as a grill master! Tony also loved spending time camping, hunting, and fishing. He frequently delighted his family, especially his best buddy, grandson, Tracen, with fishing excursions on his boat, spending days on the beautiful lakes in Idaho. This past June he was delighted by the birth of his first granddaughter, Memphis Grace. His constant companion was his beloved Newfoundland dog, Molly. He never made a step without her at his side, and she continued to stay right by him until he passed away. A celebration of life for Tony will be held at a later date in September. Tony was a great storyteller and all are invited to attend and share your personal stories of life's experiences with Tony. Come prepared to laugh and celebrate the life of this remarkable man. Details will be forthcoming. For those wishing to make contributions in Tony's memory, the family requests memorial donations be made to North Idaho Hospice House in Couer d'Alene, Idaho.