In his 88th year, peacefully, at his long time home on East street in Goderich, surrounded by his loving family, at 12:45 p.m. Ernest found much joy in his life pursuits, from contributing to his family’s coal business in his youth, to driving taxi in the GTA as a young man, to farming in the Walkerton area, and finally retirement in Goderich where he established active roles in the community through volunteer work and church life. Ernie took pride in contributing to the Meals on Wheels program for 26 years, and consistently serving in many roles at the First Baptist Church, one of his greatest joys was in fellowshipping with fellow Christian brothers at his weekly Wednesday morning Bible study. Pre-deceased by his beloved wife Jean Dorothy Bate (nee. Sutton), and siblings Margaret Bate and Donald Bate. Dearly loved and missed by his children Kenneth Bate (Sylvia Bate) of Goderich, Karen Goode (Raymond Goode) of Goderich, and Kevin Bate (Joanne Bate) of Kitchener. Also by his loving Grandchildren: Courtney Henry (ne. Bate), Stewart Bate, Jennifer (Goode) Jackson (Adam Jackson), Jacob Goode (Natasha Wilmot), Amanda (Goode) Neill (Phil Neill), Sheena Goode, Tori Goode, Christopher Parks, Brandon Murrin (Amy Murrin). Fondly and lovingly known by his many great grandchildren: Lincoln, Gryffin, Hope, Israel, Serenity, Scarlet, Kylie, Justin, Marcus, Tosha, Bastian, Joshua, Michael and Athena. Ernie will also be dearly missed and fondly remembered by his family in Newmarket, his close friend Mel Farnsworth, extended family, countless friends, and his church family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any gifts be directed to the Canadian Cancer Society.
2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought well, finished the race, and remained faithful.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Colleen Maguire
Sincerest sympathies to the family of Mr. Bate. I saw he go by my house almost everyday with his walker. One day as he sat their catching his breath, I said, “Hi” and asked him if he was ok? You see he reminded with his plaid shirt, and determination of my own father. I never knew who he was or who were his kin but now I know who he is. He will be missed.
Bonnie Borchardt
Ernie was such a man of faith and determination! I loved to meet him walking around the block with his walker . He is an inspiration to never give up. Til we meet at Jesus feet. Love and prayers to all his family. Bonnie Borchardt
Tanya Johnston
One of my favorite memories of Ernie, I shared with Courtney also, was the day I seen Ernie last summer after living longer than the doctors thought he would, was strolling with his walker toward home after his walk around the block. I seen Ernie as I was driving past so turned onto East St. to say Hi. I was so happy and proud that Ernie was not only living but enjoying his life. When I stopped to say Hi from the other side of the road, Ernie looked up, left his walker and almost ran (walked very quickly) toward the car. While I’m having a heart attach thinking he may fall on my watch, he smiled large and began to check in through the car window. I chatted and then assisted him offering cautions, back to his walker. In hind sight, Ernie probably thought I was nuts but it made me even more happy for him that he could be as mobile as he was and happily walking his route. I am sure there are neighbors that will miss seeing Ernie on his walk route also.
Dale Germain
Kevin and Family,
Condolences from the team at Hoist. We will be holding you up in prayer during these trying times.
Nick and Dale
Jim Mulhern
Our condolence to Ernie’s family.
Jim Mulhern
Clare and Joanne Smith
“Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.”
“We pray the love of God enfolds you during your journey through grief. We send you thoughts of comfort.”
Clare & Joanne