Earnest "Buddy" Hargate Jr.

Earnest “Buddy” Hargate Jr., 59, of Kankakee, Illinois, passed away surrounded by loved ones on November 14, 2024. Born on October 30, 1965, in Kankakee, IL, Buddy had a lifelong passion for antiques. He could spend hours in dusty shops and flea markets, searching for hidden gems with stories to tell. Buddy could often be found working on cars and standing around for hours talking with friends. He loved hunting, fishing, being outdoors, fast cars, 4-wheel drive trucks, classic rock music, and the oldies he listened to growing up. Most important to Buddy was his family, the times everyone gathered and showed love for each other creating beautiful memories through the years. Buddy is survived by his devoted wife of 24 years, Wanda; his parents Bud Hargate Sr. and Joan Hargate, stepmother Teresa Hargate, sister Michele (Ron) Shockley, brother Marc Hargate, sister Brandi (Jeremiah) Hargate, step-sister Brenna (Alex) Powers, son Shane (Casie) Crawford, stepchildren Jason (Ashley) Cooper, Jesse (Caitlin) Cooper, Angela (Justin) Hunter. Grandchildren Layla, Ellie, Elliott, Emerson, and Indie. Nephews Garrett, Ian, Luke, Nathan, Caiden, Cooper, and Carter. Nieces Bella and Hallie. A Celebration of Buddy’s Life will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024 at Jensen Funeral Home from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. with a service at 5:30 p.m. Rest in peace, Buddy. This road may have ended, but your journey has just begun.