Michael Gates

(From Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home)

Michael Ray Gates went to his heavenly home on Monday, April 10, 2023, at the age of 76, at his home in Verona, Missouri after a long illness. He was surrounded by his wife and family at his passing.

Michael was born the second of three children to Derle and Mary Gates on December 13, 1946, in Mt. Vernon, Ohio. He graduated from Aviation High in Redondo Beach, California in 1963, where he was a stand-out cross-country performer.

In 1984 Michael moved to Missouri and married his best friend, Linda Gates, of 39 years. They were united in marriage on February 4, 1984. Together they raised their son, Louis, whom Mike was so proud of.

Michael worked at Leggett & Platt in Carthage, Missouri for over 20 years until his retirement in 2009. He was very involved in the community. He was a volunteer firefighter, first responder, area storm spotter, a member of the Verona Lions Club, Royal Ambassador youth leader and served a term as town mayor. Mike was a devoted member of Verona Baptist Church, where he loved to help with the food pantry and any other area he could serve.

Mike was an avid golfer and talented photographer. However, his real joy was his grandchildren. They were his pride and joy. He kept busy attending all of their school activities and basketball games, with his camera in his hands capturing every memory he could.

Michael was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, great- grandfather and a friend to all.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary, Derle and Bobbi Gates, brother, Pat Gates and nephew, Matthew Izzo.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Gates; son, Louis (Valerie) Carrasquillo, of Missouri; sons, Dean and Andy Gates; daughters, Michelle Holder and Denise Beck, all of California; sister, Brenda (Mike) Izzo, of California; sisters-in-law, Lori (Garth) Stephens of California, Kathy Larson of Nevada; Suzie Mellen of California; nieces, Rachel (Jonathan) Cecil of California and Sara (Ryan) Larson of Colorado; grandchildren, Tristan (D.J.) Feitl, Twilah, Jaiden and Jaicee Carrasquillo; great-grandson, Nash Feitl and many more grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of the Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home, in Aurora, Missouri.

Memorial donation may be made to the Verona Baptist Church Food Pantry or the Dementia Society in care of the funeral home.