Tributes

Vick Vito Abate met his Lord Jesus face to face in Glory on Sept. 30, 2014. Vick was born on April 3, 1930, Beaumont, Texas, to Veda La Bella Abate and Joseph Abate. He was married to his high school sweetheart, Betty Ann Abate, from October 1950 until her passing in 1995. From his marriage to Betty Ann, his three children survive him: Terry Abate Livingston John, Vicky Abate Scharff Lon, and Dr. Curt Abate Lela. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Kristen, John, Kari, Kelsey, Clay, and Philip Buckley, Caroline; his brother and sister, Will Abate Marie and Frances Booher Lee Dunstone, brother-in-law, Jim Franklin; and his nieces and nephews. His brother, John Abate, and sister, Virginia Franklin, predeceased him. Vick is survived by his wife of 19 years, Gwen Abate, and her children whom he loved, Skip Darlene Marks, and Doug Sharon Marks, his pastor. Vick worked for RC Cola, served in the U.S. Army, and the U.S. N. R. He was a retired San Antonio Police sergeant, where he served the community for 37 years. After retirement, Vick stayed close to the Department, which he loved, remaining active with the pensioners, attending the breakfasts, and writing for the S.A.P.D. Centurion. After his service with SAPD, Vick continued to serve his community, his church, and the Lord. He administered the Under the Bridge Ministry, Angel Tree and Prison Fellowship Ministry. He was active in his churches: Evers Road Christian Church and Northwest Hills Christian Church. He met for tacos with several of the men who were his close friends in his Bible study each week. Vick was an avid student of the gospel and evangelist to all he met. He graciously opened his home to many in need of a place to stay. Vick had no particular hobbies because he humbly spent his life in service to God. During one of the Under the Bridge services, Vick was seen barefooted as he gave his shoes to a homeless man who had none. In his vehicle he carried readymade bags of items to give to those in need. Vick also remained active with his high school group from South San High School, especially his close friends Sam Warren, Charles Schrade, and Raymond George. They stayed in touch regularly, and he loved them. He helped organize the Bobcat Bash. Vick will be remembered for his love of his children, grandchildren, his fellow man, and most of all, the Lord. Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 5, from 2:00 P.M.–5:00 P.M. at Mission Park Funeral Chapels North located on 3401 Cherry Ridge Drive. Services will be on Monday, October 6, 2014 at 12:00 noon at Northwest Hills Christian Church located at 9560 Potranco Road San Antonio, TX. Interment to follow at Mission Burial Park North.

Tributes

Vick Vito Abate

April 3, 1930 - September 30, 2014