Joseph Gates

Gates, Joseph S. 2/4/1932 - 5/28/2021 Kalamazoo Passed away on Friday, May 28, 2021 at Ascension Borgess Hospital at the age of 89. Joseph was born in Chicago, IL on February 4, 1932, the son of the late Joseph S. and Marie (Swiss) Gates. He married Janet (Foust) Gates and she preceded him in death on May 18, 2018. Joe worked for over 50 years as a salesman for Eckrich. He enjoyed golfing, bowling, and watching the Cubs, Bears and White Sox. Surviving is his son, Steven (Karen) Gates of Fowler, IN, and step-children, Becky Darasko, Vicksburg, Bob Standish, Kalamazoo, Robin (Ken) Warren, Holland, Chris (Peggy) Standish, Mendon; 14 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; and two sisters, Joan of South Haven and Shirley of Melbourne, Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Janet, sons, Joe, Mike, Mark, David, Brian and Keith; step-daughter Tanya; grandson Keith; and his sister Evelyn. Joe was a remarkable and very loved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was the strength and support of the family and always available to share and listen. Joe will also be missed by his beloved dog Sunshine. Friends may visit with the family from 11-12 p.m. on Friday, June 4, 2021 at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo, MI 49007. Following the visitation, the funeral service will be held in the funeral chapel as 12 p.m. officiated by Rev. James Dyke. Interment will follow at Boughton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Please visit Joe's personalized web page at www.langelands.com to sign the online guest book or leave a message for the family.