He was born on September 27, 1930, in Baltimore, MD, to Earl and Margaret Gately.
As a young man, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy.
In September of 1961 he married Patricia Kimball.
Earl was a very talented musician who played principal bass for several symphonies, including the San Antonio Symphony. He was also an accomplished and well-loved instructor at two universities and one college in Illinois, leading countless students to successful musical careers.
Additionally, he wrote more than a dozen instructional books for Mel Bay.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Trish Gately.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia; 6 children, Casey Gately, Jerry Kimball, Richard Kimball, Michael Kimball, Edward Gately, and Catherine Gately; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the San Antonio Symphony, P.O. Box 658, San Antonio, TX 78293.
