Thomas George Gates

As a child, Thomas loved playing baseball coached by his dad and fishing at the family farm. He also enjoyed competing on the Loch Lloyd swim team, doing flips on the trampoline, and spending time with his Grandpa George, who was very proud of his oldest grandchild. Thomas attended Nativity Parish Catholic Grade School and graduated from Rockhurst High School. Though school wasn’t always easy for Thomas, he never gave up.

Thomas was naturally funny. As one of his high school friends shared, “Dance and laughter are what come to mind when I think of Tom…..he would dance like no one was watching, always ready to show off his moves and lift everyone’s spirits. I can’t even count how many times he made entire rooms burst into laughter.” Whether it was encouraging his brother Jack to go on the biggest roller coaster or riding his skateboard, Thomas had unwavering confidence. He helped those around him to live boldly and without fear of failure. Once while playing basketball he told Jack that when you’re shooting your shot, you have to believe you’re going to make it. Thomas loved music. He and sister Emily would put on “free” concerts for the neighbors and throughout the day, Thomas could be heard spontaneously singing a line from his favorite rap songs. He was loved dearly by his family, and we are grateful to God for the 25 years we had on Earth with Thomas George Gates.

Thomas was preceded in death by his grandparents, George and Pam Gates. He is survived by his loving parents, Mike and Diana, his sister, Emily, and his brother, Jack; grandparents, Mike (Carol) Schwartz and Susan Meagher; Aunts Kate (Mike) Keller, Ali (Dan) Cooper; Uncles John (Carolyn) Gates, Jimmy (Emily) Gates, and many cousins.

A Rosary at 10:30 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 will be held at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, Kansas on Tuesday, July 8th, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, the family recommends donations can be made to Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas.