Michael Gates

Michael J. Gates was born September 5, 1943, and passed away on June 29, 2018, surrounded by his loving family. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 51 years, Jenny; his daughters, Kimberly and Michelle; son, Michael; grandchildren, Charles (Chelsey) and Caitlyn; and his loyal pet Sammie. He was the love of our lives and will be truly missed. Per his wishes, a private burial will be held at the VA Cemetery.

Robert and Aldona Gates blessed this world with Michael J. Gates on September 5, 1943 in Detroit, Michigan. Mike had 3 siblings. His brother, Richard Gates (deceased) whom was married to Kathy Gates. Rick and Kathy had three children Chris, Mathew, and David. His sister, Lynn Gates with children Tory and Tanner, and his younger brother, Charles Gates whom is married to Missy Gates. Chuck and Missy have two children Shalaine and Nathanial.
Mike and his family moved to North Little Rock, Arkansas. In May 1964 Mike was drafted into the Army as a 11C40 Inf Ind Fire Crewman. He received the Expert (Rifle) and 2d Class Gunner with 81mm Mortar bar medals. In January 1966 he was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant. Mike was very proud of his service to his country.
On May 27, 1967 Mike married the love of his life, his soul mate, Jennifer Gates. They lived happily together for 51 years in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Mike and Jenny were blessed with 3 wonderful children, 2 amazing grandchildren, and 2 grand dogs. Kimberly Gates and Michael Gates of North Little Rock, Arkansas and Michelle Gates Crawford of Georgia. Michelle's children, Mike's grandchildren, were his world. Charles Crawford is married to Chelsey Crawford and lives in Virginia Beach. Caitlyn Crawford lives in Georgia and had him wrapped around her little finger. Sammie was his grand dog that lived with him and was his buddy. Ray Ray was his grand dog and pal that he visited in Georgia.
Mike worked 35 years at Union Pacific Railroad as a switchman/break man. He retired 20 years ago. He was a selfless loving husband, father, and grandfather that enjoyed playing pool, fishing, hunting, and anything to do with history.
Mike began his battle with cancer in August 2018. He never once complained and always put his family above all else. He was placed into hospice at the Little Rock Veteran's Hospital on 20 June 2018. The VA hospice staff were amazing. They provided excellent care to Mike and his family. Mike never felt any pain. Both Mike and his family were at peace. The family extends a very special thanks for all of the wonderful care they received from the oncology department, palliative care, and hospice staff. They all made a very difficult time as easy as it could possibly be. The family was in awe over the Walk of Honor that the VA staff does for the fallen Vet. Mike passed peacefully surrounded by his family on 29 June 2018. He wanted to pass giving his loving wife kisses and holding her hand. He passed doing just that. His journey will end in a private burial with honors at the VA cemetery.
Mike was a remarkable man. He died as he lived putting his family above all else. He was a man of strong moral principal. He always enjoyed life. His legacy will continue within his children and grandchildren.
With Chimpanzee's smiles and love---
The Gates