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Rupert Pate Obituary
Rupert was born in Augusta, Georgia, on October 2, 1936, to Dorothy "Dot" (née Young) Pate and Rupert E. Pate, Sr. He graduated college from The Citadel, joined the Army, served two tours in the Vietnam War (as well as two years in South Korea), and taught at the Command General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth before working at Benedictine College, where he was a beloved history professor. He also made his acting debut on the silver screen when he appeared in the 2004 independent film CSA: The Confederate States of America (directed by film professor Kevin Willmott of the University of Kansas). After retiring, he enjoyed volunteering to lead a spiritual study group at the Lansing Correctional Facility as well as meeting with his Lawrence-based veteran friends who had likewise served during the Vietnam War.
He was predeceased by his parents, brother Hugh, and nephew Michael. He is survived by his wife, Deb, sister Bernie, brother from our mother Earth Orv, cousins Evelyn, Jim, Lori, and Ken, son Colin, children Rachel, Julia, and Jude and their mother Suzanne, grandchildren Joe, Will, and Evan, niece Elizabeth, and nephews Jared "Rip", Robert, and John.
The family will host a celebration of life in memory of Rupert at the Cider Gallery in Lawrence Kansas on September 29, 2024.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rupert Pate
Eric Anderson
August 15, 2024
Just learned of this sad loss. Rupert was a longtime colleague, both at KU in History graduate studies and as a fellow professor at BC. He added much to my knowledge and outlook, and will be sorely missed.
Michael O'Keefe and Maryetta McDuffie
May 16, 2024
We met Rupert at the Command and General Staff College some 50 years ago. He was the most patient, gentle soul we ever met. Sorry for your loss Deb, and the world's loss as well.
Jeff Blanchard, BC '98
May 9, 2024
An inspirational man, Rupert Pate seemed to me to be a perfect combination of empathy, care, confidence, clarity, and humility that every leader should strive to embody. Although I did not communicate with him regularly, I thought of him, and will think of him, often.
Vicki Turner
May 9, 2024
Deb,
I am sorry to hear about your husband. My sympathies are with you and your family.
Vicki Turner
Consignment store friend :)
Angela Benedictine Class of 2003
May 9, 2024
I'm sorry for your loss. I always really enjoyed his classes and he made a lasting impact to my college experience.
Frank Roberts
May 9, 2024
Prayers and sympathy for Deb & the family.
He was the professor that came with Benedictine students to teach Native American Spirituality during oir semester in Italy in spring 2009. He and his wife such positive mentors to us and helped really maximize the experience and expand our worldview.
On a personal note, like a good native Georgian - he introduced me to the idea of Tabasco sauce on pasta, which is fantastic! I think of him every time I do it!
Rest in Peace Professor!
Whitney Cattle
May 8, 2024
I had the pleasure of having Dr. Pate as a history teacher at Benedictine College. I loved his Native American Spirituality class. Rest in peace.
Shirley Harkess
May 8, 2024
Remembering the good times celebrating the Fourth of July with all the kids contextualized with your reading of the Declaration of Independence. Condolences, Deb and Colin.
Raquel Huntington
May 8, 2024
What a wonderful man, friend, and instructor! Rest in Peace my friend! You definitely touched my heart and taught me so much at Benedictine.
Chris Shanks
May 8, 2024
Dr. Pate was my favorite college professor! BA 1996 from Benedictine. Sorry for your loss.
Ruth Remmers
May 8, 2024
Dear Deb and Colin,
Rupert was a dear friend of my late husband, Bill. Rupert generously shared his historical knowledge, his spirituality, and his great love for all.
I wish you peace during this time.
Ruth
Stu Shafer
May 7, 2024
Rest in Spirit Bupert. Walk on, Brother. I hope to see you along the path again one day.
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