John Andrew Gates

Born in Denver, Colorado on May 4, 1933, John passed away on May 17, in Sacramento. He was preceded in death by his wife of 24 years Betty Gates of Santa Rosa, his parents Andrew and Mary Gates, and Brother-in-law Gus Cladis of Denver. He leaves behind his four children Maria Vigil (Mark), Andrew Gates (Teresa), of Sacramento, Christie Klontz (Terry) of Atlanta, Georgia and Johny Andresen (Margaret) of Detroit, Michigan as well as his three grandchildren Andesa Gates, Ryan Klontz and Tyler Klontz. In Denver he leaves behind his sister Elaine Cladis, her four children Tom, Andrew, John, Mary Lynn and their families. He will be deeply missed by many friends.

John excelled on the high school wrestling team never losing a match. He was much stronger than he appeared and attributed it to all the snow he had to shovel. John bragged about being tough as nails. His famous quote was "You can't hurt steel." After college he served in the Marine Corp as a 1st lieutenant and later graduated from McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento while teaching grammar school. He practiced law for a few years but his passion was in real estate. He later became a successful broker.

John lived life to the fullest, cherishing his Greek heritage, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and boating. He also had a passion for cooking and the Denver Broncos.

The Trisagion will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 22 and the viewing is from 4-7 pm at Nicoletti, Culjis & Herberger Funeral Home, 5401 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95819. Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 23 at the St. Katherine's Greek Orthodox Church, 9165 Peets Street, Elk Grove, CA 95758.

Arrangements under the direction of Nicoletti, Culjis & Herberger Funeral Home, Sacramento, CA.