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Milton Tate, 78, of Rupert, Idaho, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, December 30, 2025.
Milton was born on September 3, 1947, in Yuma, Arizona, to C.L. and Jean Tate. He later made Rupert his home, where he built a life centered on family, laughter, and the things he loved most.
Milton married Debbie Crosby, and together they had two children, Bo Tate and Missy Tate. He also welcomed three stepchildren into his life, Lisa Emery, Troy Emery, and Travis Emery. Though Milton and Debbie later divorced, his devotion to his family never wavered.
Milton loved spending time outdoors and making memories with those closest to him. He especially enjoyed taking the family boating at Minidoka Dam, fishing whenever he could, and following his passion for drag racing. He was known for his incredible sense of humor, quick wit, and perfectly timed comebacks. Above all else, Milton believed that family was everything, and he lived that belief every day.
Milton is survived by his siblings, Joe and (Georgia) Tate, Stan Tate, Cheryl and (Ralph) Shawver, and Dixie and (Mike) Dennis; his children and stepchildren, Bo and (Heidi) Tate, Missy and (Jeremy) Potestio, Lisa and (Joe) DiGiuseppe, Travis and (Carolyn) Emery, and Troy Emery; along with many beloved grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held in the coming summer, with the date to be announced arrangements are under the direction of Joel Heward Hansen Mortuary.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Milton Lee Tate, please visit our floral store.