Curtis Tate

Curt was everybody’s friend and the person you could always call for help—day or night. Born on August 15, 1959, in Oakland, California, to Corrinne and Edward Tate, Curt enlisted in the U.S. Army shortly after high school. Following his honorable discharge, he entered the trades, where he built a long and respected career. Curt worked as a Specialty Refrigeration Technician, known for his expertise with large industrial refrigeration units. He spent 25 years with Carrier, Inc. as a proud union member and later finished his career with Emcor, where he continued to be valued for his exceptional skill, dedication, and work ethic.

Curt embodied kindness in action. He was caring, helpful, knowledgeable, dedicated, and blessed with a great sense of humor. A true problem-solver, Curt could fix anything he put his mind to, and he shared that gift with anyone who needed assistance. He was known for always carrying a toolbox—on his motorcycle, in his car, and even on vacations—because helping others wasn’t something he did; it was simply who he was.

One story that perfectly reflects Curt’s character was his constant habit of ordering things online—not just for himself, but for friends, family, and anyone who needed something. His home had such a steady stream of deliveries that Curt placed a mini fridge outside, stocked with cold drinks for delivery drivers, along with a note inviting them to help themselves. Over time, he collected countless handwritten notes and tags from drivers thanking him for his generosity—a small example of the big heart he carried.

Curt lived with passion for the things he loved. He enjoyed NASCAR and NHRA racing, motorcycles, and blues music—both listening to it and playing it himself. In his later years, he found joy in shooting sports and volunteered regularly as a Range Safety Officer at the El Dorado County Gun Club. He was also a proud member of the American Legion, the Classic Corvairs of River City car club, and a long-time member of the HOG community.

Curt met the love of his life, Brenda, and the two married in October 1999. They were inseparable and shared a lifetime of adventures. Their early years were filled with boating and camping, followed by countless miles riding their Harleys side-by-side. They traveled often—whether to their timeshare, in their RV to catch great blues concerts, or simply to spend time with friends. Wherever they went, they went together.

Curt passed away suddenly on November 28, 2025. Earlier that day, he had been doing what he loved—volunteering at the El Dorado County Gun Club and spending time in the community that meant so much to him.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Brenda Tate; his siblings Connie Tate, Frank “Buddy” Thomas, and Kitty Neilson; his daughter Danielle Patrick and son-in-law Chris Patrick; granddaughters Courtney Lynn Helgesen and Madison Patrick; step-daughter Jolene Ford and son-in-law Steven R. Ford; and grandson Steven Z. Ford. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Gary Petersen, sisters-in-law Cathy Petersen and Rosemary Hagman, along with his nieces, nephews, and many more people who loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m at the American Legion Hall - 4561 Greenstone Road, Placerville, CA 95667

In lieu of flowers, Curt would have preferred donations be made in his name to the American Cancer Society