James Arthur Gates

GATES, James A., Sr. Kalamazoo, MI James Arthur Gates, Sr., 87, peacefully left, with family and loved ones at his side in his own home on April 29. James was born June 30, 1926, the son of Asa and Donna (St. Clair) Gates. He was united in marriage in December, 1954 to the former Lillian (Showerman) Gates, who preceded him in death in March, 1979. He married Evelyn Fitzgerald in October, 1979. He worked at (KVP - Brown Co.) James River for 43 years, retiring in 1987. He served on the union committee and also served on the Board of Directors for the First Community Federal Credit Union. He served in World War II in the United States Navy. He was blessed with a long healthy life. James loved traveling and his family. He leaves behind his wife, Evelyn, three sons James (Cheryl) Gates, Jr., Harlan (Annie) Gates, Edward (Pam) Adams, one daughter Donna (Bruce) Culver, eight grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren, two stepsons Robert Fitzgerald and Tom Fitzgerald, and a stepdaughter Lynn Fitzgerald, and two stepgrandsons. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Mary and Dorothy. Cremation has taken place. Family and friends interment will be held at Mount Everest Memorial Park, Kalamazoo, MI, on Friday, May 2, at 3:00 p.m. Contributions in James' honor can be made to Grace Hospice.