Remembering Robert "Bob" Tate Jr.
By: Shawn Pomaville-Size, Executive Director, MotorCities National Heritage Area
Robert Tate at his home in 2023
Last week, MotorCities National Heritage Area learned of the passing of Robert Tate. Bob was the primary historian and writer for the MotorCities Story of the Week since 2011. For over 15 years and 100s of stories he never ran short of new ideas. As a life-long auto enthusiast, Bob drew from the wonder of his memories growing up in Detroit. As a young man, he would cut out pictures from magazines and newspapers to commemorate his favorite vehicles. He became an avid collector of model cars and automotive images. He closely followed the careers of designers from the 1950s until current day. Bob’s passion led him to career stops at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum, General Motors, Detroit Public Library-National Auto History Collection, and the Automotive Hall of Fame. His wealth of knowledge came from his personal experience. In writing his stories, he wanted to inspire a new generation of enthusiasts.
Robert Tate recognized as part of Michigan Auto Heritage Day (L to R) MotorCities Executive Director, Shawn Pomaville-Size, Robert Tate, Former MotorCities Board Chair -Robert Kreipke
We are forever grateful for his contributions to MotorCities. The stories were our most popular and awaited content each week. He eagerly looked forward to seeing the stories posted and engaging with all of you readers. He appreciated the kind words and memories that his stories evoked. He also appreciated the criticism and corrections. Those moments of debate showed that the passion for automotive history was still alive and well. MotorCities joins that historical community in mourning his loss. We extended our thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.
Robert Tate and Brian Yopp
In 2023, Deputy Director Brian Yopp visited with Bob where he was able to share his journey. You can revisit that interview here.
If you would like share kind words and memories of Bob, please share via his Tribute Wall.