He worked for National Furniture and Whirlpool.
Richard was a member of Blue Grass UMC where he enjoyed participating in mission trips. He also belonged to the Elberfeld Lions Club. Richard volunteered at the Salvation Army and the Literacy Center.
He enjoyed fishing and traveling.
Richard is survived by his wife of 42 years, Judy (Grimmeissen) Gates; sister-in-law, Jane Grimmeissen; brother, John Gates and his wife Mary Anne; sister, Nancy Howell and her husband Larry; sister, Carole Harms; four nieces and three nephews.
Services will be held at 1:00 PM Wednesday, August 10, 2011 at Blue Grass UMC, 14240 Petersburg Road, Evansville, officiated by Pastor Doug Heiman. Friends may visit Wednesday from 11:00 to 1:00 PM at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to Feed My Starving Children in care of Blue Grass UMC.
