Ted W Slater

On Saturday, March 18th in the early morning, Ted William Slater passed away peacefully at his home. Ted was born on November 17, 1944 to Red and Betty Slater while his father was away fighting in the Pacific Campaign during World War II. Betty and Ted lived with her twin sister MaryAnn and her newborn daughter Paula until Red returned. Paula and Ted had a special bond throughout their lives. Red and Betty raised Ted and his younger brother, Jim, with a strong work ethic he passed down to his children. Jim and Ted were not only close in age, but were best friends growing up. Ted attended Arvin high, he was active in athletics, running track, playing football and student government. He later attended UC Davis, but his studies were interruptepted when he joined the Vietnam War effort and enlisted in the United States Navy. During his service in Vietnam, Ted participated in 268 combat river patrols in the Mekong Delta, each which was conducted in the face of imminent enemy action. He received many commendations including the Bronze Star, for exposing himself to enemy fire in order to save the lives of his crew. Ted's devotion to duty was a characteristic he displayed throughout his life as he was always willing to help others and tried to do the right thing. After returning from the war, he married his first wife, Yvonne and they had two daughters, Stephanie and Renee. Ted was a good provider and a loving father. He made certain both of his daughters graduated from college debt free. Ted worked for Southern Pacific Railroad for many years, 1966 to 2005. He had many lifelong friendships with his fellow Rails. After retiring from the Rail Road Ted's life changed again and he married his second wife, Evie who lovingly cared for him during his long illness. He is survived by his wife, Evie Slater; his brother, Jim Slater and his wife Christy; his daughter, Stephanie Henry and her husband Greg; his daughter, Renee Slater-Samples; stepson, Kenneth Osborne and his partner Melissa; grandchildren, Nathan, Cooper, Brooke, Alaina and Elijah and his beloved cousins, Paula, Nick, Madonna and Joan Cavagnaro. As were his wishes there will be no services, but we encourage you to raise a glass in his honor and remember him.