John Wesley Pate of Garden City, Michigan, passed away on January 25, 2025.  He was born in Billings, Montana on April 9, 1949, the eldest of eight children born to Annamary Jane Willoughby and Billy Keith Pate.

The family moved to Michigan in 1960. John graduated from Garden City High School East and briefly attended Lawrence Tech University.

John married the love of his life, Barbara Marie (Zychowicz) Pate, on March 14, 1981. Together they raised four strong and independent daughters: Rebecca, Jennifer, Julie and Jillian.

John was a lifelong democrat and fan of U of M Football. He always had an interest in computers and other gadgets. Like any true Michigan Dad, he enjoyed hunting and fishing.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Barbara; daughters: Rebecca (Rob) Robbins, Jennifer (Derek) Luellen, Julie (Toni Burdgick) Pate, and Jillian (Matthew Crist). Grandchildren: Rachael (Bryan Finnigan) Robbins, Lucas Luellen, Oliver Luellen, Alexander Pate-Burdgick and Charlotte Crist. Great-Grandson Colin Finnigan. Siblings: Doug, Kate, Carrie, Billie and Anna. Beloved pets: Pepper, Apollo, and Nine. As well as many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by both of his parents, brother, Philip and sister, Wenda.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, at First Congregational Church of Wayne: 2 Towne Square Street Wayne, MI, 48184.

Visitation starts at 10:00 AM, service at 11:00 AM with luncheon to follow.  Flowers can be delivered to the church.