Alexander “Tater” Gavin Tate, age 19, of Salem, passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2026, in Salem.
Alex was born on December 21, 2006, in Centralia, the son of Gary and Holly (Savin) Tate.
He was an early graduate of the Salem Community High School class of 2025 and was employed as a laborer with County Materials. Alex was sworn into the United States Army on Friday, May 1, and was looking forward to proudly serving his country.
Alex enjoyed his time playing Salem Wildcat football, riding his dirt bike, fishing, and listening to music. He attended CRAVE at Salem Grace Church of the Nazarene and that is where the seed of faith was planted. He was currently a member of Evergreen Christian Church. Those who knew Alex will remember his adventurous spirit, kind heart, infectious smile, and the joy he brought to those around him.
He is survived by his parents, Gary and Holly Tate of Salem; siblings, Nick Savin and wife Mya of Salem, Emily Barton and husband Dustin of Centralia, Victoria Tate of Salem, Cody Tate and fiancée Emily Bevans of Enterprise, Alabama, and Olivia Savin and fiancé James Brown of Alma; his nieces and nephews, Kane Jolliff, Kinleigh Barton, Benson Barton, Penelope Tate, Wrenlee Brown, Hadley Brown, and Weslee Brown; and his grandfathers, Jesse Weems of Salem and John Tate of Troy.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Carolyn Weems, Mike Savin, Lonnie and Peggy Millenbine, and Kathryn Tate.
A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem. Shannon Bopp will conclude the visitation with a service of remembrance for Alex.
Crouse Funeral Home in Salem is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the family and will be received at the funeral home. Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.
