John R. Gates, Sr's Obituary
Age 64, of Hillsdale, formerly of Jackson, passed away at his home, Saturday, January 23, 2016. He was the son of the late, Bert and Roberta (Hume) Gates. John is survived by two sons, John (Diane) Gates Jr. and Rob Gates; grandson, Jameson Gates; wife, Deborah Gates; two step-sons, John Grady II and Anthony Grady; three sisters and their families, Sharon (John) Preston, Kathy Ramsey and Mary Hamilton; mother of his sons, Laurel (Carl) Smelser, all of Jackson and his ""brother"" and best friend, Robert Baker of Battle Creek. John graduated from Parkside High School; then went on to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam Era. He was a retiree of the Jackson County Sheriff's Department and a member of the Thin Blue Line of Michigan. Cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service to honor his life will be held at the Calvary United Methodist Church, 925 Backus Street, Jackson MI 49202 on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at 3:00 pm with visitation beginning at 2:00 pm and a luncheon following services. Reverend Jeremiah Hodshire will officiate. Military honors will be presented by the Jackson County American Legion Ritual Team. Contributions in John's memory may be given to the Thin Blue Line of Michigan (www.tblofmi.com), Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics (www.somi.org/letr) or the American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org).
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