Ronald R. "Ron" Abate

Ronald R. "Ron" Abate, 85, of Herminie, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2018, in Forbes Regional Hospital, Monroeville, surrounded by his family. He was born May 28, 1933, in Herminie, son of the late Albert and Elsie Mae (Plues) Abate. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Albert Abate; and brother-in-law, Robert Smith. Ron was proud to be an Army veteran, having served during the Korean War. He was proud to have played in the Army Band of Fort Knox, Ky., prior to deployment to Korea. Before his retirement, he was employed by Sterling Box Corp. in Jeannette for 37 years. Ron was one of the founding members of Herminie VFW Post 8427. He enjoyed camping, hunting and fishing. He was the band leader and played trumpet for the Polka Jacks (his creation), played trumpet in the Royal Tones Dance Band for more than 10 years, played trumpet in the Irwin VFW Drum and Bugle Corps and also played in the Pittsburgh Rockets Drum and Bugle Corps. Ron is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Sally Lee (Baughman) Abate; two sons, Ronald R. Abate Jr. and his fiancee, Mary Beth Harvey, of Jeannette, and David A. (Angel) Abate, of North Huntingdon; two special granddaughters, Cecilia Abate and Taylynne Ott; a sister, Ruth Smith, of Carriere, Miss.; two nephews, Robert Jr. (Sherry) and Robbie; and two nieces, Ashley and Kelli. He is also survived by family friend, Lois Blair, of Adamsburg. Ron will be dearly missed by his family, friends and neighbors. The family would like to thank Forbes Palliative and Hospice care as well as the 5North staff at Forbes Hospital for all their love and compassionate care. A memorial gathering will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesday at the JOSEPH W. NICKELS FUNERAL HOME INC., 404 Sewickley Ave. Herminie, 724-446-7251, at which time a memorial service will be held to celebrate Ron's life.  In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the family. To send online condolences, please visit www.nickelsfuneralhomeinc.com.

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