James Edward Tate

Ed Tate, 83, of Springfield, passed away on Thursday September 17, 2015 at his residence. He was born on March 22, 1932 in Galesburg to Morris George and Helen Browne Tate. He married Mary Louise Bechtold on August 5, 1955 in Springfield and she preceded him in death on June 16, 2014.

Mr. Tate is survived by his children: Carol (Stephen) Tankersley of Alexander, David (Bonnie) Tate of Arlington Heights, VA., Linda (Ed) Tate-West of El Paso, IL., and Paul (Suzy) Tate of Tampa, FL., four grandchildren: Elena and Tate Tankersley, and Sarah and Erica Tate, one great-grandchild Jason Jordan, one cousin Robert Tate, his sister-in-law Mary Tate, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one sister Beth Sharpe and two brothers: Don Tate and George Tate.

Ed worked for Reilly Construction for over 20 years and he owned METCO Rental Properties with his wife Mary Louise. He was involved with several major construction projects in the area including the Decatur Holidome and the CWLP smokestacks. One of Ed’s proudest achievements was building the two homes that he and Mary Louise raised their family in. Ed would like everyone to “put on a happy face” and give someone a hug today.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00pm on Thursday September 24, 2015 at Camp Butler National Cemetery. The family would like to invite friends for a reception following graveside services from 3-6pm Thursday at the Springfield Elks Lodge #158, 409 East Lake Shore Drive. Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Lung Association and please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com.