DAVID BRADLEY BATE

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DAVID BRADLEY BATE July 13, 1965 - May 23, 2004 We are deeply saddened to announce the tragic passing of David Bradley Bate on Sunday, May 23, 2004, at the age of 38 years. He will be missed by his wife Rhonda Bate (nee McFarlane) and cherished young sons Bradley and Carson; his mother Karen Debrecen and husband Jerry; his father David Bate and wife Doreen; his sister Sue Odaisky, husband Dave and their children Danika and Dylan; his sister Janet Debrecen; his grandmother Esther Bate; and numerous extended family and friends. Dave was born July 13, 1965 in Ajax, ON and spent most of his childhood in southern Ontario. He moved with his family to Winnipeg in 1977, where he attended Kildonan East Collegiate and the University of Manitoba. To remember Dave is to remember his vitality and enthusiasm for life. He was a natural athlete who excelled at every sport he played. As a little boy, Grandpa Andy bought him a pair of hockey skates, and Dave has been "on the go" ever since. Nature was Daves playground. He was an avid outdoorsman, and lived for those endless days spent at the lake or in the woods, hunting, fishing, ATV riding and snowmobiling. When he wasnt roaming the bush, he loved puttering around the garage or the yard with his two favourite sidekicks, Bradley and Carson, never far behind. Rhonda and Dave met in 1987 under now legendary circumstances. (Those who have known Rhonda and David for some time will recall the story of Daves endearing sign to Rhonda at her volleyball game in 1987.) Soon after, they became best friends. Thanks to Daves persistence, it was not long before this incredible friendship blossomed into true love. Dave and Rhonda were married in 1991. Bradley was born in 1999 and Carson followed in 2001. They were an active family who enjoyed numerous adventures together. Dave poured his boundless energy into entertaining his two little buddies, Brad and Carson. Whether it was a scraped knee or a broken lawn mower, his boys revered their daddy as the man who could fix anything! Dave was charming and spirited, and his fondness for celebration ensured no one in the room experienced a sad mood or an empty wine glass for very long. He loved playing host to a full house of family and friends. The annual spring pig roast to celebrate his sons birthdays and family ice fishing trips were always special occasions. These good times have provided his family and friends with some amazing memories. Dave shared a special relationship with his mother, Karen. It was clear to all who knew both that a special bond existed between them. Karens success in running a business was a source of pride for David, and her abilities undeniably helped shape his view of the business world. After honing his skills for 14 years with Coca-Cola Ltd., Dave fulfilled his lifelong dream of owning his own company when he bought Miracle Sanitation two years ago. Dave was a dear husband, father, son, brother and friend. We are grateful for the short time weve shared with him and the extent to which he has blessed and enriched our lives. His family would like to thank everyone who has visited, telephoned, sent packages, or otherwise made their presence felt over the last few days. Your thoughts are truly appreciated and will never be forgotten. A celebration of Daves life will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, May 28 at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St., Winnipeg. Honorary pallbearers are Rick Los, Gary Boriskewich, Wes Sadkowski, David Clarke, Guy Burr, Grant Sokal, Dale Laurin and Darrell Yustak. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to: The Bate Family Trust Fund, in care of Oakbank Credit Union (Birds Hill Branch), 3187 Birds Hill Rd., East St. Paul, MB R2E 1G6. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 27, 2004