Arlene R Gates

Arlene R. Gates, 91, passed away peacefully at home Thursday, February 24, 2011 from complications of Alzheimer's disease. She was born December 10, 1919 in Silverton, Colorado, and had been a Ventura County resident 70 years.

Immediately following her high school graduation, Arlene moved from Silverton to California, where she soon met her husband-to-be, Leonard.

Arlene and Leonard were both well known and beloved by many people in the area. They brought bowling to Ventura County in the early 1940s. In 1955 they expanded with a 12-lane establishment called "Poinsettia Bowl." When Leonard passed away in 1974, Arlene continued running it on her own until 1983. They were both inductees of the Ventura County Bowling Association Hall of Fame.

Truly a modern woman, Arlene obtained her real estate license and began a part time second career at the age of 65.

She took frequent trips and enjoyed traveling with family and friends. She also spent many hours watching her granddaughters play basketball, and was always willing to go anywhere in the country to cheer them on.

Our sweet mother saw the best in everyone she met. When her own children were growing up, she loved all the neighborhood kids. They continued to be in touch by sending her cards often. This meant so much to her, and we thank you. It was not unusual for her to have "girlfriend slumber parties" until her late 70s. At the age of 91, not many of her own close friends were left, and we know she missed them.

Arlene is survived by her children, James, of Carlsbad, Calif., John, of Ventura, and Peggy Greathouse, and son-in-law, Randy, of Ventura; grandchildren, Robyn, Adam, Nicole and Kelly; great-grandsons, Jaden and Jacob; and many people who held her close to their hearts.

Memorial donations may be made to Livingston Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice, 1996 Eastman Ave., Ventura, CA 93003, (805) 642-0239, or online at www.lmvna.org.

Private services will be held.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home and Crematory, 3150 Loma Vista Rd., Ventura. Condolences may be left at www.tedmayrfuneralhome.com.