David Frederick “Fred” Bate, of Camp Dix passed away Friday, August 8, 2025, at the age of 77.
Born on November 12, 1947, in Mason County, Fred was a son of the late Henry and Ruth Bate. A lifelong resident of Camp Dix, he cherished the community and land that shaped him.
Fred pursued higher education with dedication, earning a Bachelor of Arts from Eastern Kentucky University and a Master of Arts in Adult and Continuing Education from Morehead State University.
A proud veteran, Fred served with honor as a Sergeant in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he was twice awarded the Bronze Star for bravery. He served in A Company, 4th Battalion, 3rd Infantry, 23rd Division, Army Rangers.
Following his military service, Fred devoted nearly 30 years to the Kentucky Workforce Development Cabinet, working in vocational rehabilitation to help others find their path forward.
Fred was a dedicated member of the Morehead Free Masons Lodge #654 and the Allied Masonic Degree Council No. 484. He was a man of service, not only to his country and community, but to the land he loved. On Pine Eddy Farm—where he was born, raised, and raised his family—Fred lived a life rooted in stewardship, hard work, and hospitality.
A man of many talents and interests, Fred was a licensed pilot, an avid gardener, a skilled carpenter, a fantastic cook, and a gracious host. His generosity, wisdom, and humor left an impression on all who knew him.
Survivors include his loving wife of 27 years, Cheryl Streets Bate; five daughters, Teresa (Kevin) Callahan of Vanceburg, Michelle Bate (Stefan Greene) of Portsmouth, Ohio, Elizabeth Bate of Lexington, Karley (Michael) Henson of Georgetown, Texas, and Megin Maugans (Clinton Calhoun) of Groveport, Ohio; nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Many other family members and friends also mourn his passing.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Mitchell Bate.
A Celebration of Life will be at 7:00 p.m. Monday, August 18, 2025, at Globe Family Funeral Chapel, 7975 Lower Kinney Road at Camp Dix, with Bro. Jerry Bloomfield officiating.
Friends may visit after 5:00 p.m. Monday, August 18, 2025, at Globe Family Funeral Chapel at Camp Dix.
Members of Morehead Masonic Lodge #654 will serve as honorary pallbearers.
Masonic Services will be conducted by Morehead Masonic Lodge #654 at 6:30 p.m. Monday.
Military rites will be accorded following the service by Olive Hill American Legion Post 138.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Shriners Children’s. “No man stands so tall as when he stoops to help a child.” – donate.lovetotherescue.org
Condolences may be sent at www.globefamilyfc.com.
