Bruce A. Tate, 55, passed away on December 4, 2011, at the Hospice House in Rapid City. He peacefully passed away in his sleep from a short but hard fought battle with Lymphoma. Bruce was preceded in death by his father, Ronald, and his sister, LeAnn.

On February 19, 1956, Betty and Ronald Tate welcomed two twin boys to the world, Brian and Bruce. Bruce would always jokingly brag about how he came out first and he "paved" the way for his twin brother, Brian. Although he was born in Van Nuys, CA, he grew up and considered Simi Valley, CA, his true home.

As a young teenager, Bruce would go on to join the family business of Tate Plumbing. He had over 35 years' experience as a plumber and a maintenance man. He considered himself a "jack of all trades" and was proud of the type of work he did with his hands.

Bruce loved cars, motorcycles, and anything with an engine that was built for speed. He loved racing dirt bikes and quads and was involved in firearms and hunting when he was younger. He was a lifelong Nascar fan and never missed a race.

Bruce considered himself lucky to have lived and worked throughout California, Mesa, AZ, Idaho, Reno and Las Vegas, NV, and finally settling down in Rapid City, SD.

Bruce had a heart of gold and would go out of his way for anyone. He was always there to lend a helping hand to a friend while never asking anything in return. He was a person you could always depend on if you needed help.

He was a beloved brother, uncle, father, and an amazing grandfather. He's survived by his mother, Betty of Simi Valley, CA; brothers, Randy and Brian of Simi Valley, CA; niece, Shannon, and nephew, Ryan, of California; great-nephews, Ricky and Robby; great-niece, Leanna; children, Anthony and Tonia of Rapid City; grandchildren, Kayden and Milie; and longtime girlfriend of over 25 years, Lorenda Martin of Rapid City.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 10, 2011, at 2:00 p.m. at the Ramada Inn, 1902 Lacrosse Street, Rapid City, with Chaplain Auggie Minzlaff officiating.

A memorial has been established to Hospice House in Rapid City.

Click on link to view service folder