Willard Richards Tate
Willard Richards Tate, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, and friend passed away on September 28, 2010 at Legacy House in Bountiful, Utah, after an extended battle with Alzheimer’s.
Children's Favorite Portrate of their parents by Bravenger Photography
Willard Richards Tate 1925-2010
Life Sketch From Willard’s Life History
BIRTH
Willard was born June 24, 1925 at about 2 o’clock in the afternoon in the front bedroom of their home in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was warmly welcomed by his parents George Lawrence Tate and Alice Minerva Richards Tate and 6 of his 7 older siblings: Thelma, Alice, Joel, George, Ralph, and Kenneth.
1925 Willard Richards Tate (in buggy) & brother, Kenneth
NAME
Regarding his name, Willard said, “ Well, on the day that my mother gave birth to me, her father, [George Franklin Richards] who was a member of the quorum of the twelve, came out and said your name is going to be Willard Richards Tate because he was born on the same day, June 24th, as you were. I was born June 24th, 1925, and so that’s where the name is. I don’t think my mother was really too happy with that but she was a very obedient daughter, and so she named me that, and I’ve been really very happy to have that name afterwards. It’s different than most all of the names around, and I’m very happy with it.”
1926 Willard Richards Tate 1 yr. old with dog
Willard wrote, “As far as I can remember I wasn’t much trouble. I filled quite a vacant place in our household since I came not too long after Melvin died and even though I became the 6th boy in a row things seemed to indicate that I was welcome. Being the last of 8 children and the “baby” of the family I was very spoiled but seemed to have survived (after a fashion).”
1933 (abt) Willard Richards Tate with drum
CHILDHOOD
As a child he enjoyed playing marbles, kick the can, and other games with the boy next door. Once he said, “we dug a pit and built some standards and used wood and bamboo sticks for vault jumping. I remember jumping 7’6” once and thought myself quite the boy.
In grade school (Hamilton Elementary), Willard sold hot dogs at the football games at the University of Utah Stadium to earn Christmas money. He paid 9 cents each and sold them for 10 cents.
1937 Willard Richards Tate 12 yrs. old
JUNIOR HIGH
He attended Roosevelt Jr. High School was a stagehand and built a four tube radio (that was high tech in those days). Physics was his favorite class. During graduation exercises he was recognized as the only straight “A” graduate.
HIGH SCHOOL
Willard went to West High in Salt Lake City. He was active in the ROTC (Reserve Officers Training Corps). He was Captain Adjutant of the West High ROTC Battalion and was selected to be the adjutant from the three Salt Lake High Schools for the Regimental Review that was held in the University of Utah Stadium. He said, “I remember commanding the 3 Battalions of the Regiment with the words “Battalions Attention!!”
Willard attended some of the dances at West High, particularly the “Cadet Hops” held by the various schools. Since many of them didn’t have “wheels” in their families, they took their dates to some of the formal dances by taxi.
He graduated from West High in 1942 with a straight “A” record. That summer he went to stay with his brother, George, in Dayton, Ohio. His brother had arranged for him to work at Wright Field for the summer as an Under Engineering Aide. Through his brother’s encouragement, he decided to go to college to become an electrical Engineer.
While in Dayton he learned how to drive a car and got his driver’s license. While he was there he bought his first car, “Suzie”, a 1935 Dodge. He paid $90 for it. He later immortalized “Suzie” in an English composition, Titled “An autobiography.” It was good for an A+.
UNIVERSITY
In the fall of 1942, he enrolled in the School of Engineering at the University of Utah.
NADINE
Willard wrote: I met Nadine Call (grandma) at the University of Utah, in Jan. 1943. For our first “date” I took her to Church. I was surprised at her lovely soprano voice. , As we got to know each other better, we held fingernails under the table during lunch. I gave her my ΛΔΣ fraternity pin on her 17th birthday and we became engaged April 12, 1944 just before I left to join the Navy.
NAVY
Willard was in the United States Navy from 1944-1946. He wrote: Along with a large contingent from the electrical Engineering School, I left for boot camp at the Great Lakes Naval Training School in Illinois and then to Radio Technicians training. Through the Navy he studied at Hugh Manley in Chicago, and in San Francisco, California; Cornell University, New York; and MIT in Boston.
19 April 1945 – Eternal Marriage Willard Richards Tate and Nadine Call
LDS Salt Lake Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah
MARRIAGE
Willard and Nadine were married for all eternity in the House of the Lord - Salt Lake Temple on April 19, 1945. Willard's uncle - Elder LeGrand Richards performed the ceremony. They honeymooned in Boston as Willard was transferred there for training in the Navy.
UNIVERSITY CONTINUED
Following his time in the Navy and while he was in the reserves he returned to complete his education. He graduated from the University of Utah with his BS in Electrical Engineering June 12, 1948 with a GPA of 3.7. He received his Masters of Science in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University in California in 1950 and his Engineer in Electrical Engineering in 1951 with a 3.8 GPA.
1948 - Willard and Nadine Tate and firstborn, son, Richard Willard
FAMILY
Willard's pride and joy are his children and his posterity. The only earthly treasures that you get to take with you are your family, sealed in the Holy Temples of the Lord by those with Priesthood Authority. Families are forever. Richard was born in 1948 and then 14 months later twins: Cynthia and Linda were born. Steven arrived in 1953 and Kate came 3 years later. Larry was born in 1958 and Rebecca two years later. Totaling 7 children. They have 45 grandchildren and their 29 spouses; and 61 great grandchildren. Totaling: 145 posterity with more expected before the year is out
1949- Willard & Nadine Tate with children:
Richard and twins: Cynthia & Linda
1955 - Bishop Willard Richards Tate - Westdale II Ward
BISHOP
When Willard was only 29 years old he was called to be the Bishop for the newly organized Westdale II Ward. Willard and Nadine were loved by their ward members. Even 50 years later they have friends from those early years.
EMPLOYMENT
Willard worked for Hughes Aircraft in Culver City, California where he held many positions including Department and Lab Manager. At one time he said that he was over 100 other Electrical Engineers. Grandpa and Grandma were able to go to in Paris in 1961 to represent Hughes Aircraft for the United States at a NATO Conference on the Study of infrared systems (again the highest of technology and science in those days for military strategy). His lifelong friend, Harold Redd, also worked at Hughes Aircraft but at a different location and so during lunch they would play chess (using the phone – there were no webcams in those days). We suspect they (since Harold passed away 7 years ago) are back playing chess during their breaks from missionary work and leadership training for the best of life continues after this earthly existence.
Willard and Nadine's Seven Jewels. "Great Tates!"
1987 - Senior Missionary Willard Richards and Nadine Tate – California San Bernardino Mission
MISSIONS
Willard and Nadine served 6 Senior Couple Missions as Office Couple. Nadine was the Mission President’s Secretary and Office Coordinator and Willard was the Mission Financial and Fleet and Housing Coordinator. They were so efficient and organized that they were asked to help set up new mission offices. They loved serving the Lord and they loved serving with each other. Their missions included:
Legacy of Missionary Service
- California San Bernardino Mission 1987-1988.
- California Carlsbad Mission May 1993- Sept 1994.
- California San Francisco Mission, May 1997 – May 1998. Their daughter, Linda and husband Michael served in that same mission 7 years later.
- California Long Beach Mission May 1998- Aug 1998
- California San Bernardino Mission Sept 2000 – Sept 2001. Their Grandson Scott Strong served in same mission during that time and they got permission to have him and his companion join them for Thanksgiving dinner.
-California Riverside Mission June 2003 – June 2004. Willard at age 78 still wanted to serve another mission but they didn’t need another office Sister so he started the mission alone but within a month, Nadine’s expertise and skill were also requested.
MISSIONS
Willard and Nadine served 6 Senior Couple Missions as Office Couple. Nadine was the Mission President’s Secretary and Office Coordinator and Willard was the Mission Financial and Fleet and Housing Coordinator. They were so efficient and organized that they were asked to help set up new mission offices. They loved serving the Lord and they loved serving with each other. Their missions included:
Legacy of Missionary Service
- California San Bernardino Mission 1987-1988.
- California Carlsbad Mission May 1993- Sept 1994.
- California San Francisco Mission, May 1997 – May 1998. Their daughter, Linda and husband Michael served in that same mission 7 years later.
- California Long Beach Mission May 1998- Aug 1998
- California San Bernardino Mission Sept 2000 – Sept 2001. Their Grandson Scott Strong served in same mission during that time and they got permission to have him and his companion join them for Thanksgiving dinner.
-California Riverside Mission June 2003 – June 2004. Willard at age 78 still wanted to serve another mission but they didn’t need another office Sister so he started the mission alone but within a month, Nadine’s expertise and skill were also requested.
1988- Tate family picture
Kate, Larry, Richard, Steven, Cynthia
Linda, Nadine, Willard, Rebecca
1993- Senior Missionary Willard Richards and Nadine Tate - California Carlsbad Mission
The children treated Willard and Nadine on a Royal Caribbean Weekend Cruise to Mexico to celebrate their 50th Golden Anniversary. They filled two tables and other guests commented that they wished they were part of our group because we had so much fun. They also admired Willard and Nadine’s beautiful and large family.
1999- Senior Missionaries- Elder Willard Richards Tate and Sister Nadine Tate
TRAVEL
Willard wrote: “My wife and I have enjoyed several general trips to Europe and Mexico, also special trips to Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Israel, Egypt, and Indonesia. Find it delightful to tour US via our mini motor home. We make a point of going on some trip with each of our children and spouse as just a one on one, and have had some of our greatest adventures this way.”
TRAVEL
Willard wrote: “My wife and I have enjoyed several general trips to Europe and Mexico, also special trips to Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Israel, Egypt, and Indonesia. Find it delightful to tour US via our mini motor home. We make a point of going on some trip with each of our children and spouse as just a one on one, and have had some of our greatest adventures this way.”
2002- Willard & Nadine Tate’s family – Bryce Canyon Reunion
FAMILY REUNIONS
Family reunions were always special to Willard because he could be with his posterity. At one reunion he looked out over his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and said you see me as 75 years old man but in my minds eyes I am looking out at you as a 65 years old man because though our bodies get old our spirits remain young and vibrant.
ANGEL’S LANDING
At the age of 81 Willard climbed to the top of Angel’s Landing in Zions Park. A young fellow hiker, concerned for this elderly man, accompanied him down the hill and returned him safely to Nadine. He also took some pictures and gave them to her.
2006- Willard & Nadine Tate dancing at Bethany’s wedding
2007- Willard Richards Tate – Seattle Washington Tate Reunion
2007- Willard Richards Tate – Seattle Washington Tate Reunion
2007- Willard Richards Tate – big kiss from Richard and Janice
PLACES LIVED
Willard and Nadine lived in Salt Lake City, Utah and Menlo Park, California while attending school. They lived in San Diego, Santa Monica, Culver City, Woodland Hills, West Lake, and Agura. They moved to Lake Arrow Head in California which served as home base while they served their many missions. In 2005, they moved back to Utah to be closer to family and to live among friends in St. George and then just in the past 4 months they moved to Farmington to be close to family.
2007 - Willard Richards Tate on Nauvoo trip in Quincy, Illinois
2008- Willard Richards Tate and his sons Richard, Steven, Larry
PASSAGE CALLED DEATH
Last Thursday our family was called to say farewell to grandpa but he didn’t want to leave his family and miss out on the party and gathering. A nurse compared the process of death to the process of birth. Everyone goes through the labor differently. During the 5 days his breaths were labored and he struggled to remain with us. Over the weekend a lot of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren had the opportunity to visit him, express their love, and say goodbye. Though in a semi-conscious state he was able to respond and smile when they arrived, especially when Lori brought him his latest great grandchild. On the sixth day, Tuesday, September 28, 2010 his rhythmic breathing was no longer strained or labored but peaceful and smooth. Then at 1:40 pm. with his sweetheart and “happiness” for over 65 years, and for all eternity at his side, grandpa, Willard Richards Tate, age 85, graduated with a 4.0 GPA from his earthly mission to return to his Heavenly Father and to be reunited with his parents and brothers & sisters. The Spirit of the Lord was strong and the feeling of comfort was present.
Married Happiness for 65 years
Funeral- Friday Oct. 1, 2010 at 1:30 pm, viewing 12:00 - 1:15pm, at the Fairway Ward: 1533 N. 1075 W. Farmington, Utah. Interment: Salt Lake City Cemetery.
THANK-YOU
The family: Nadine Tate, Richard Willard & Janice Griffith Tate; Cynthia Tate & Richard Strong; Linda Tate & Michael Flynn; Steven Call & Vicki Westmorland Tate; Kate Tate & Charlie Patten; Larry Arthur & Kristy Dickson Tate; and Rebecca Tate & Scott Toborg; would like to thank the caregivers at Legacy House Alzheimer’s Unit in Bountiful and Rocky Mountain Hospice for their wonderful care and service. Their personal attention and love which made his passage home more peaceful and comfortable. We’d like to thank the Bishop and ward members for their love and support for our parents since moving into their ward.
Life Sketch at: www.eternalgraduation.blogspot.com
2008- Willard Richards Tate and his sons Richard, Steven, Larry
PASSAGE CALLED DEATH
Last Thursday our family was called to say farewell to grandpa but he didn’t want to leave his family and miss out on the party and gathering. A nurse compared the process of death to the process of birth. Everyone goes through the labor differently. During the 5 days his breaths were labored and he struggled to remain with us. Over the weekend a lot of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren had the opportunity to visit him, express their love, and say goodbye. Though in a semi-conscious state he was able to respond and smile when they arrived, especially when Lori brought him his latest great grandchild. On the sixth day, Tuesday, September 28, 2010 his rhythmic breathing was no longer strained or labored but peaceful and smooth. Then at 1:40 pm. with his sweetheart and “happiness” for over 65 years, and for all eternity at his side, grandpa, Willard Richards Tate, age 85, graduated with a 4.0 GPA from his earthly mission to return to his Heavenly Father and to be reunited with his parents and brothers & sisters. The Spirit of the Lord was strong and the feeling of comfort was present.
Married Happiness for 65 years
Funeral- Friday Oct. 1, 2010 at 1:30 pm, viewing 12:00 - 1:15pm, at the Fairway Ward: 1533 N. 1075 W. Farmington, Utah. Interment: Salt Lake City Cemetery.
THANK-YOU
The family: Nadine Tate, Richard Willard & Janice Griffith Tate; Cynthia Tate & Richard Strong; Linda Tate & Michael Flynn; Steven Call & Vicki Westmorland Tate; Kate Tate & Charlie Patten; Larry Arthur & Kristy Dickson Tate; and Rebecca Tate & Scott Toborg; would like to thank the caregivers at Legacy House Alzheimer’s Unit in Bountiful and Rocky Mountain Hospice for their wonderful care and service. Their personal attention and love which made his passage home more peaceful and comfortable. We’d like to thank the Bishop and ward members for their love and support for our parents since moving into their ward.
Life Sketch at: www.eternalgraduation.blogspot.com
Email:tatewillard77@gmail.com
