Phillip R. Tate

Phillip Robert Tate, 80, of Bucyrus, died Monday, December 21, 2020 at Bucyrus Community Hospital.



Phil was born December 31, 1939 in Holmes Twp. to the late James R. “Bob” and Idella (Baird) Tate and was 1959 graduate of Whetstone High School. Phil was a lifelong farmer, working with his dad in his earlier years and several area farmers including Reinhard Farms. His love of the outdoors and working the soil on the back of an old John Deere tractor is what kept him going for so many years. Phil also worked at General Electric for 25 years and following his last shift, he drove his tractor home and carried on his love of the farm life.



Phil, known to many as Tater, loved being around people. His morning began at Hardees for breakfast and coffee with friends; lunch and Wednesday evenings were often spent at the Bucyrus Moose Lodge and most everyone has seen him driving around or parked (while people watching) in his 1987 Monte Carlo. He had a big heart and enjoyed helping others and spending quality time getting to know them better. He delivered stone and rolled many yards over the years and, when asked, Phil proudly pulled groups or sporting teams through area parades.



Phil was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church. He enjoyed reaching out to his kids daily to chat and advise them on the amount of rainfall, which was important to Phil. Years ago, the family spent many weekends camping at River Bend and Auburn Lake and, for the past 30 years, he cherished time spent with his longtime companion, Juanita Kibler who survives. They have shared in travel and danced to many songs together. Phil will be remembered for his distinct laugh, which put a smile on many faces and will be missed by all.



Phil’s greatest passion was antique farm machinery, specifically John Deere tractors. He owned several and was active in the Wyandot, Morrow, and Crawford County Antique Farm Machinery Associations. He and Juanita donated countless hours to the homemade ice cream drive, a major fundraiser for building their museum at the Crawford County Fairgrounds.



He is survived by children, Kim Gulling, Kyle (Missy) Tate, and Shannon Tate; grandchildren, Nicole (Tyler) Madeker, Cody Gulling, Justine (Brandon) Hill, Dustin (Emely) Tate, Skyler Tate, and Jaxon Tate; great grandchildren, Harper, Hadley, Braxton, Collin, Lacey, Austin, and one expected; sister, Joann Cline; and sister-in-law, Mary Tate. In addition to his parents, Phil was preceded in death by brother, Larry Tate.



Please join Phil’s family at his graveside in Oakwood Cemetery on Saturday, May 22 where his funeral will be held at 10:00 am with Deacon Julius Fritz officiating.



Those wishing to make donations can make them payable to Crawford County Antique Farm Machinery Association (CCAFMA) or St. Francis Soup Kitchen. These will be accepted at Wise Funeral Service, 129 W. Warren St., Bucyrus, Ohio 44820. Memories and photos are encouraged on Phil’s tribute page.