Louis Anthony Abate - 88
Rochester Hills, Michigan
Louis Anthony Abate, 88, passed away peacefully on June 2nd in his Rochester Hills, Michigan, home surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 22, 1937, in Harvey, Illinois, Lou was the beloved son of Mary (Lendi) Abate and Louis Abate.
After graduating from Fenger High School, Lou attended the University of Evansville, where he played varsity baseball and later semi-pro ball as well. Showing great talent as a catcher, a Harvey Tribune reporter once wrote, “For smooth fielding enthusiasts, Lou Abate is the number one choice. Abate seldom, if ever, commits an error and has a peg to second which resembles that of a Springfield rifle.”
Upon graduating from college, Lou married his wife, Carol, and built a very successful career as a senior executive in the steel industry while dedicating their lives to their family. All of their children and grandchildren will be forever grateful for the many magical special occasions that they shared together.
A devout and active member of St. John Vianney Parish in St. Petersburg, Florida, Lou was a faithful Sunday usher and earned the fourth degree as a member of The Knights of Columbus. In the spirit of hospitality, both Lou and Carol warmly welcomed Priests, Deacons, Religious Sisters, and numerous friends from their church community into their home.
Lou leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, love, and devotion. He is survived by his loving wife, Carol; his children, Patti (husband Jim), Kristi (husband Keith), Tony (wife Stephanie), and John; his cherished grandchildren, Molly, Matt (wife Jenny), Maggie (husband Micah), Kelsey (husband Fin), Mitch, Rosie, Tony Jr., Emily, and Annelise; by his great grandchildren, James, David, William, Dashiell, and Colette; and his sisters, Jenny and Annette (husband Bill). He is preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Mary (Lendi) Abate, his sister, Josephine, and his brother-in-law, Randall Armstrong.
Memorial Visitation is at 10:30 am on Saturday, June 13, 2026, with a Memorial Mass to follow at 11 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church (715 N Lapeer Rd. Lake Orion, Michigan 48362).
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Oxford Schools Giving Garden, The Knights of Columbus, or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
