Donald Preston Tate

Tate, Donald Preston age 74, of Eden Prairie, MN passed away unexpectedly July 31, 2014. Don was born in Pontiac, MI the son of Otis and Jessie Tate where he was raised on the family centennial farm. He graduated as class valedictorian from high school earning a full academic scholarship to the University of Michigan, where he studied electrical engineering receiving Bachelor's and Master's degrees. Don married his college sweetheart and life companion Ruth Ann and the couple were blessed with two children. After graduate school Don started his career at Control Data in Minnesota. While at Control Data he was proudly involved in many projects vital to national defense, including processor design for large-scale computer systems, holding five patents for his designs. He was also part of the core team that created the fastest super- computer in the world. In his next career step Don worked for Mentor Graphics in Portland, Oregon, and assisted customers world-wide with their custom computer hardware and software needs. He then returned to Minneapolis to work for Architecture Technology Corporation where Don concluded his career as a senior program director. Throughout his career, customers and colleagues alike respected his knowledge of engineering and business along with his professionalism and integrity. In the past, Don and his son enjoyed spending countless hours together with the St. Odilia's Boy Scout Troop of Shoreview, MN. He served as an adjunct faculty member teaching Astronomy at the University of Minnesota; and was a founding member of the Minnesota Astronomical Society. A devoted Presbyterian from a young age, Don had a spirit of serving and helped as both an usher and youth class teacher in his church. Described by family, friends and neighbors as kind, inventive and curious, he will always be remembered for his cheerfulness and thirst for knowledge. Don is preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth Ann; his children, Richard (Lori) Tate and Julie Tate; grandchildren,, Daniel (Ann) Tate and Jeffrey Tate.. He was dearly loved by many and will be cherished forever. A memorial service will be held at 2 pm on Friday, August 15th, at Christ Presbyterian Church 6901 Normandale Road, Edina, MN. www.Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Tributes

Donald Preston Tate

July 31, 2014

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