Jack H. Gates

Jack H. Gates, 83, of Evansville, passed away Sunday, September 7, 2014, at his home surrounded by those that loved and cared for him. He was born August 12, 1931, to the late William and Lela (Morris) Gates.

Jack was truly a “good man” who enjoyed his life everyday which was evidenced through his contagious smile and the empathetic compassion which flowed from him for those who encountered him and those who interacted with him on a regular basis. He was the epitome of a self-made man rising from meager beginnings as he married and began his family at the age of 16, to become a successful entrepreneur and proprietor of American Pallet and American Warehousing companies through intensive hard work, perseverance and personal sacrifice as he provided for his family as it grew to include four sons. In later years he rejoiced and reveled in watching the pleasure boaters and maritime traffic which traversed the Ohio River as it flowed passed his home. Jack strongly believed in family and supported his children’s interests and loved watching or hearing about his grandchildren’s exploits and many activities which he attended as long as he was capable.

Jack was preceded in death by his son, Samuel Gates, in December of 2013; and his grandson, Todd Gates.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years who was the love of his life, Virginia (Steinmetz) Gates; sons, Daniel, Dennis (Shelley) and Thomas (Cathi) Gates; grandchildren, Matthew, Ashley, Britney, Kristin, Jeffery, Ryan and Jayden; great-grandchildren, Pantera, Todd, Tyler, Porsche, Kavun, Karley, Gage and Gunner; and the family pet dog, Reesee Cup.

Memorial Services will be 7:00 PM Friday, September 12, 2014, at Alexander West Chapel, officiated by Pastor Coy Walters, with entombment in Alexander Memorial Park at a later date. Friends may visit Friday from 4:00 PM until service time at the funeral home.

Condolences may be made online at www.AlexanderWestChapel.com.