Dennis Elton Gates, 75, a longtime resident of Sedro-Woolley, passed away on Saturday, January 16, 2010 at Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon.
Dennis was born on April 4, 1934 in Tacoma, Washington, the son of Albert & Dorothy Haworth Gates. He was raised and attended school in the Tacoma area.
At a young age Dennis’ parents divorced and his mother later married the man whom he would affectionately call ‘Pop’, Clarence Bement.
On October 19, 1965 Dennis was united in marriage to Louella Fugate in Tacoma. They moved to Skagit County in 1967 ultimately settling in Sedro-Woolley in 1974.
Dennis was working for Continental Telephone as a lineman and foreman until a disabling accident in the early 1970’s forced his retirement.
In his retirement most of Dennis’s activities revolved around his family; whether it was fishing, hunting, camping, telling stories or being the practical jokester, family and friends were everything. He was also a great cook and on all the fishing & hunting excursions he wound up being the chef. His grandchildren were the light of his life.
Dennis is survived by his wife, Louella at the family home in Sedro-Woolley. His son and daughter-in-law, Randy& Jennifer Gates of Bow and his daughter and son-in-law, Annette & Lee Hornbeck of Burlington. His grandchildren, Bryan, Jacob, Derrick and Trevor Gates and Taylor Hornbeck. Two uncles, Ernie Haworth of Tacoma, WA and Jim Haworth of Sunnyside, WA., his Step-mother, Harriet Gates of Montana, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. Dennis also leaves behind the family of Cliff Russell, who through their love and support became his family. God Bless you all.
He was preceded in death by his father, Albert Gates and mother and step-father, Dorothy & Clarence Bement. His sister, Carol Mimier; a granddaughter, Caitlyn Gates and his best friend and fishing buddy, Cliff Russell.
A Life Celebration will be held in April and will be announced then. Memorials in Dennis’s name are suggested to a charity of your choice. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley.